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Police-Community Relations: A Survey Measuring Citizens' Attitudes Towards and Perceptions of the Louisville Police Department

NCJ Number
114989
Author(s)
S Hermanson
Date Published
1982
Length
86 pages
Annotation
Telephone interviews with a random sample of 292 residents of Louisville, Ky. formed the basis of an analysis of community attitudes toward the police and public perceptions of the police role.
Abstract
The majority of respondents indicated satisfaction with the way the police are performing a variety of duties. Results also showed that citizens perceived the police as capable, trustworthy, honest, courteous, and professional in carrying out their duties. These positive attitudes prevailed despite substantial fear of property and personal crime. The community also regarded the neighborhood police stations as valuable. In addition, the majority favored a curfew for youth. Combining the Louisville and Jefferson County police forces also received support. Most respondents felt that law enforcement is a more important police role than community service. In addition, citizen attitudes toward the police were much more favorable than attitudes toward the courts and corrections. Map, figures, 9 references, and data tables presenting responses to each question in terms of respondents' region, race, sex, age, and income.