Racial Profiling Case Study

Law enforcement and correctional officers daily cope with delicate situations. When faced with an unique, possible deadly situation requires an immediate and appropriate response. We have learned thus far that law enforcement and correctional officers employ a great amount of discretion on a daily basis when performing their duties. Misuse of discretion can lead to society questioning police tactics and policies. Racial profiling is an illustration of misuse of discretion. It is known as the inclusion of racial or ethnic characteristics in determining whether an individual is considered likely to commit a particular type of crime or illegal act. This paper "Racial Profiling Not an Effective Tool", examines the case of Robert Tolan v. Jeffrey Cotton and the City of Bellaire Administration. It also comments on the

One of the biggest changes we ve seen in recent years is the education and training of police officers and law enforcement officials. Most police departments in the United States have begun to give assessment tests for recruits. Such things as intelligence tests and role-playing exercises are used to evaluate a recruit. These tests are intended to screen out undesirable candidates by such criteria as interpersonal communication skills, decision-making ability, and ability to direct others.

After these assessment tests recruits must attend a police academy. These academies are taught by licensed instructors and focus on giving students the knowledge and practical skills needed to successfully serve their communities. Instructional areas range from the criminal justice system, law, investigations, patrol fitness, communications, traffic investigations, defensive tactics, use of firearms, and driving ( Police Academy, 2001 ). Rookie officers then go into field training. During this training, a veteran officer monitors the rookie while in the field.