Over the last several years, the relationship between law enforcement and the community that we serve has changed. The change has been the result of lack of trust or transparency; a disconnect between police and the community; lack of voice between police and the public; and lack of, incomplete, or misinformation by media or social media outlets.

With a better understanding of procedural justice, students will be able to decrease community barriers and create more productive and positive relations in the community. Students will also explore how procedural justice is also relevant to intra-agency success and relationships. Instruction will include: Voice, or the representation in decision making; Neutrality and transparency; Respectful Treatment, both within the agency itself, and the in the community; Trustworthiness, showing that law enforcement is not there to protect the city, but rather, are part of an integral member of the community. By learning about Cognitive (known) and Implicit (unknown) bias, creation trustworthiness will allow for a guardian versus warrior mentality.

Students will learn how better relations with the community can help overcome community cynicism and create more police legitimacy. Generational values and perspectives will also be explored to facilitate better interaction and outcomes. The topic of how to become more involved in the community will also be examined to allow for better community-based proactive problem solving and policy and procedural process development. Students will also review major historical events that led to the de-evolution of our current environment.

Students will be asked to evaluate the presence of several areas: new technology; social media outlets; and evolving and diversifying community formation with different, and cultural values; and internal budgetary and staffing issues. Students will be engaged in lectures, facilitated discussions, and hands-on practicum to explore the areas of procedural justice. Student-center activities will enhance better communication and see different perspectives, starting with fellow students.