When the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) enacts consent decrees to oversee police departments accused of misconduct, the intention is to reform and rectify abusive practices within these agencies. However, the consequences of these federally mandated reforms are often far more complex and concerning. Consent decrees, in theory, promise to reduce police abuses, ensure accountability, and build community trust. Yet, in practice, they frequently hamper the efficacy of local law enforcement and create a path toward federal overreach, threatening the very autonomy that allows police agencies to respond flexibly to local needs. In this interview Dr. Myers and Bob discuss those unintended consequences that often have devasting impacts on law enforcement agencies. It is Eye-opening to say the least!
Bob Scales is the CEO of Police Strategies LLC. Police Strategies uses data science and technology to help police agencies implement effective policies, training programs, and accountability systems. Previously, Bob served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for King County, Special Assistant United States Attorney, the Assistant Director for Public Safety for the City of Seattle, and the Director of Government Affairs for the Seattle City Attorney. Bob also served as the Compliance Coordinator for the Seattle Police Department to implement the Consent Decree with the U.S. Department of Justice to resolve allegations of misuse of force. Bob was elected to two terms on the Bainbridge Island City Council and served one year as Mayor.
Dr Myers Interview of Bob Scales, CEO of Police Strategies, on the Unintended Consequences of Consent Decrees.