Effects of COVID-19 on the Honduras National Police and lessons learned regarding police officer well-being and occupational stress

Abstract

Background: In early 2020 a global pandemic linked to a coronavirus, known as COVID-19, quickly spread and Government authorities scrambled to respond implementing travel restrictions, social distancing, testing, and quarantines. By early March, the Republic of Honduras implemented strict protocols, requiring greater attention from the police in enforcing the mobility restrictions and working with Government and public health officials to contain spread of COVID-19. Purpose: The purpose of this formative research is to better understand the impacts of COVID-19 on the Honduras National Police with particular attention to officer well-being and occupational stress. Methods: Using mixed methods, this article reports the descriptive results of 28 semi-structured qualitative interviews with high-level command staff from the Honduran National Police (HNP) and a representative sample of 143 patrol officers drawn from police districts in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba, and La Lima. Results: Policing activities related to crime prevention, investigations, and human resource assignments have shifted in Honduras due to COVID-19. Few police protocols have been updated to reflect this new work environment and steps to protect the well-being of police officers have been inconsistent, with elevated stress levels among officers. Limitations: This case study of police in Honduras is based on a small but representative sample of line officers. The findings of this study are most useful to neighbouring countries in Central America, though there are findings relevant to all police agencies. Conclusions: Our review and analysis have immediate implications for police agencies working to address planning and training deficiencies during the current COVID-19 outbreak while also underscoring critical considerations to prepare for the next worldwide health crisis.