Ambiguous calls: Public preferences for law enforcement responses to people in crisis

Aim

Law enforcement officers are tasked with responding to various types of calls for service in the community, including individuals in crisis. Thus, the current study examines public perceptions regarding crisis related behaviors and preferred police responses.

Methods

The current study used experimentally designed case vignettes from an online opt-in survey to tap into crisis-related behaviors (drunkenly passed out, injecting a substance, walking around talking to oneself, and standing on the edge of bridge). The study examined whether respondents (n = 880) viewed the behavior as a crime and how they wanted law enforcement to respond, including arrest, take to treatment, release to family or friend, and ignore and do nothing.

Results

Being drunkenly passed out, injecting a substance, and standing on the edge of a bridge were more likely to be considered a crime relative to walking around talking to themselves. Generally, respondents wanted law enforcement to do something rather than nothing. However, the preferred outcome varied by situation.

Conclusion

Findings have recommendations regarding the criminalization of mental health and education for the public on crisis behaviors linked to locally driven resources and supports.