1. Implicit & Explicit Bias
The importance of de-escalation and force avoidance
Implicit & Explicit Bias

2. Objectives Define and understand implicit and explicit bias
Reinforce the need for fair and impartial policing
Discuss strategies for reducing bias
Class discussion / experiences
Understand that de-escalation is woven into our force response during fluid encounters with those we serve
Conclusion / Questions

3. A Few Definitions
Bias – Prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another
Implicit Bias – The Underlying attitude or stereotype that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner
Explicit Bias – A deliberate attitude formed at a conscious level. These thoughts are easily self-reported

4. Definitions Continued:
Fair and impartial policing – Fairness in processes that resolves disputes and allocates resources in an equitable manner. Consider these ideas:
How complaints against officers are investigated
How crime is investigated (resources used)
How officers are assigned in neighborhoods
Proper equipment needed to do the job
Police are viewed as “legitimate” when community treated with respect and dignity

5. Definitions Continued
Four Principles of Fair and Impartial Treatment / Pillars of Procedural Justice
Fair & consistent with rules and processes
Representation and voice in the process
Transparency and voice in the process
Impartial and unbiased decision-making

6. Fair and Impartial Policing
21st Century Policing report produced in May of 2015 indicates that in order for police officers to be fair and impartial it is critical that we have a thorough understanding of both implicit and explicit bias
Who in this class is willing to share a story about an experience they’ve seen or lived that illustrates either implicit or explicit bias?

7. Bias Continued
Remember – “bias” is not limited to “bad people.” We all have our own bias.
The problems are widespread and arise from history, from culture, and from racial inequities that still pervade our society and are especially infused in our criminal justice system **
**Listening session on building trust and legitimacy – 21st Century Policing – Jennifer Eberhardt

8. Supervisors & Leaders – All of us!
We have a responsibility to identify and change policies and practices that are bias
Implement policies and training that inhibit or prevent bias
Model appropriate behavior

9. Mitigate Implicit Bias Through:
Anti-bias policies and practice
Vigorous investigation of crime
Training and education
Community input
Accountability / Responsibility
Specific policy supporting dignity and respect
Appropriate discipline for violations of anti-bias policies

10. Discussion Topics – Challenges
When does your agency release video tape of an incident?
How does your agency respond to constitutionally protected protests?
Tell us how your agency responds to a controversial officer- involved use of force?
What are your policies concerning the mentally ill and homeless?

11. De-escalation
Calming a heated situation (when possible) is of course preferred
De-escalation and force avoidance (increasing reaction time/space between police and an aggressive subject(s) should be taught during your agency’s use of force training
Understanding your options can only increase your chances of a successful outcome
Training for these options should be a part of what your agency does everyday

12. Examples
Who in today’s class will share an incident in their career that could have been handled better if an officer had been calmer or not jumped to the wrong conclusion?
Who can share a success story for all of us that illustrates a calming approach to a heated situation that eventually resulted in an incident being successfully concluded with no harm or less harm than anticipated?
Discuss the characteristics of each person involved.

13. Defeating Bias and Internal Excuses
Focus on the goal, values, and mission
Remember – total team effort! Police and community
Respect others regardless of circumstances

14. Defeating bias
The goal is to defeat bias by providing quality service that:
Restores neighborhoods back to the citizens
Allows businesses, schools, and residents to thrive & feel safe
Encourages collaboration between communities and the police

15. Resources 21st Century Policing (USDOJ) The Houston Police Department
Advice from police chiefs and community leaders (PERF)
Procedural Justice for Law Enforcement (Kumard and Moe)
Not Your Grandparents Bias (Fridell)
Victims of Group Think (Janus)
Talent is Not Enough (Maxwell)

16. Remember your impact on those you serve
Respect
Dignity
Patience
De-escalate when possible
Awareness of implicit bias
Goals, Mission, Values
Community involvement