NCJ Number
177440
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 68 Issue: 6 Dated: June 1999 Pages: 1-4
Date Published
1999
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Research shows that when police officers, by their body language and mannerisms, manifest vulnerability and weakness, they are more likely to be challenged and assaulted by suspects; the implications of such findings for police work are discussed.
Abstract
According to the FBI's research and studies by other professionals, offenders learn to read the behavioral cues of police officers to determine whether or not an assault on the officer may succeed in enabling them to escape the scene. This article summarizes three major cases from the FBI's research to illustrate such offender behavior. In many of the cases examined, the offenders could not articulate the exact cues they perceived regarding the targeted officer's appearance, gait, or behavior; however, killers and assaulters alike stated that if their victims generally gave the impression that they appeared authoritative, seemed resolute, or acted professionally, then the offenders were reluctant to initiate an assault. This does not mean that officers should not have a personable approach with the public or that they should not use community policing practices. Rather, officers must maintain a high level of vigilance and preparedness in carrying out their assigned duties. Further, research should be conducted to identify those specific behaviors that communicate officer vulnerability and weakness and those that indicate the officer is prepared to counter any aggression. 5 notes