InFocus
Welcome to InFocus!
Straight from the NPI Newsroom, InFocus covers important topics across the policing profession that may benefit you, your agency, or your community. From research to best practices, agency highlights and insightful interviews, InFocus is your monthly snackable resource for law enforcement knowledge. Explore our issues below and join the conversation on our social media platforms.
December: Crisis Response
In this issue of InFocus, we explore what research says about crisis response models. While there is still more to learn, co-response is a promising model, and this month, we hear from a police department that has been doing this for over twenty years. We also share other models and resources to determine which one works best for you and your agency. Dive in.
November: Survey
November marks 11 months of InFocus. In this month's issue, the NPI team delivered a survey to subscribers to learn what worked and what didn't with this series so far. As an organization rooted in research, we recognize the value of evaluation and will use this survey to craft next year's content.
October: People
Policing takes people, and great policing takes people with innovative ideas. In this special issue of InFocus, we are spotlighting what we believe is the most important ingredient for a successful police agency: people. Explore October's issue, which is full of policing icons, researchers, trailblazers, and more!
September: Training
Training is required for law enforcement officers before they can assume duties. However, there is more work needed to understand the available training courses effects. In this month's InFocus, we explore the current evidence around training, highlight an agency that is evaluating de-escalation training, and offer resources agencies can use to train their officers.
August: Education
Law enforcement agencies have varying educational requirements. Some research supports higher education, while others offer potential consequences. For this issue of InFocus, we bring the conversation right to our subscribers' inboxes. We wanted to know what police officers and community members think about education, and in September, we will let you know what they said.
July: Evidence-Based Policing
In this InFocus, we explore evidence-based policing and the challenges and ideas around translation, adoption, and implementation. We also spoke with a few past and present NIJ LEADS Scholars who are doing great things for evidence-based policing and their communities. Read now.
June: Community Engagement
A strong foundation of trust and legitimacy is crucial for effective policing. In this month's InFocus, we explore this concept, the role procedural justice plays, and the overall benefits of enhanced community engagement. Review this issue for research, initiatives from agencies like yours, and resources to bring your efforts to the next level.
May: Honoring America’s Peace Officers
This month's InFocus looks different as we pause and honor America's peace officers for National Police Week. To pay homage to the brave men and women law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, we dedicate this collection of conversations and resources to their memory. Read more.
April: Violent Crime Reduction
Is violent crime in America up or down? The statistics tell one story, and perception tells another. This month's InFocus looks at violent crime reduction strategies our researchers stand behind. Discover new resources and stories, including the Rural Violent Crime Reduction Initiative and what two agencies are doing to disrupt violent crime in their jurisdictions.
March: Women in Policing
This month's InFocus takes a look at women in policing, the history of research, the issues, and where we are now. In this issue, we highlight an agency that is thinking innovatively about recruiting and retaining women officers. We also interview a police executive who rose through the ranks, mentoring others, finding outlets, and leading a family of five. We know the issues and have found agencies that have pinpointed solutions. Read their stories and explore these resources.
February: Constitutional Policing
This issue of InFocus dives into the concept of constitutional policing and how it is applied to communities. Features include an interview with former Boulder Police Chief Maris Herold, a look at a Michigan sheriff's office that understands policing in a democracy, research findings, resources, and more.
January: Officer and Staff Wellness
In this first-ever issue of InFocus, we cover the critical topic of officer and staff wellness. Complete with a list of resources, an interview with a former police officer turned country music artist, and a story about a department that sets the bar high, we hope this issue creates conversation around prioritizing workforce wellness.