Predictors of the Police Use of Force

There is a volume of research that has analyzed the police use of force— particularly the use of deadly force. Past research has been limited by em ploying only a dichotomous measurement of force. This paper explores predictors of the police use of force in Phoenix by analyzing 1,220 arrests. In addition, the paper employs the concept of a continuum of force. Lo gistic regression results show the strongest predictors of police use of force are length of time on the force, suspect race, chemical impairment, at tempt to flee and possession of a weapon. Relevant literature and research implications are discussed.

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