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Understanding Demand for Police Alternatives

Author

Listed:
  • Bocar A. Ba
  • Meghna Baskar
  • Tony Cheng
  • Rei Mariman

Abstract

In a series of experiments, we present evidence of bipartisan public demand for police alternatives, contrasted with persistent policy resistance from key stakeholders. First, our survey experiment demonstrates that introducing U.S. respondents to dontcallthepolice.com (DCTP), a database of non-governmental emergency response options, significantly reduces reliance on police for nonviolent situations. However, this effect does not extend to violent scenarios where no police substitutes exist. Second, our follow-up survey reveals enduring impacts, including heightened recall of the 988 hotline as an alternative during suicidal crises. Third, our field experiment and qualitative interviews find police resistance to embracing DCTP, despite widespread public support for nonviolent police substitutes.

Suggested Citation

  • Bocar A. Ba & Meghna Baskar & Tony Cheng & Rei Mariman, 2024. "Understanding Demand for Police Alternatives," NBER Working Papers 32418, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:32418
    Note: LE PE POL
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    JEL classification:

    • H10 - Public Economics - - Structure and Scope of Government - - - General
    • K0 - Law and Economics - - General
    • P0 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - General

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