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Amsterdam, April 30th 1980 - The Experience of Mobile Unit Officers

NCJ Number
85677
Author(s)
L Nuijten
Date Published
Unknown
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Because serious civil disturbances broke out in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, during the investiture of Queen Beatrix on April 30, 1980, this survey was conducted to explore the experiences and attitudes of mobile unit officers on that day.
Abstract
The survey covers officers' personal characteristics and attitudes toward the social order and politics, their opinions of operations that day, and the amount of supervision they had received. Most officers found their clothing and weapons reasonable and medical care good, although few felt the same about their vehicles and equipment. Officers were shocked at the level of violence and experienced fear and panic, as well as other stressful emotions. Findings call for uniformity and standarization in weapons and equipment, emphasize the importance of clear instructions of officers and use of special tactics geared toward troublemakers. One footnote is included.