Attitudes and Perceived Barriers of Police Officers Regarding the Lethality Assessment Protocol
Version posted is the copied final manuscript.
Abstract
This exploratory, qualitative research study examined the attitudes and barriers police officers identified in successful implementation of the Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP), a collaborative intervention between police departments and domestic violence advocacy agencies in the State of Connecticut. Focus groups were conducted at three police departments to identify officers’ perception of LAP. Officers (N=22) were recruited through an individual contact at the police department. Responses to focus group questions identified both system-wide and individual police department barriers. Officers generally support the protocol and believe it has beneficial intent and purpose. Barriers identified include timing of the implementation, lack of victim cooperation, and agency culture. Implementation barriers and officers’ attitudes are discussed.
