Incorporating Specialized Courses on the Prevention of Sexual Misconduct in Policing Academies

A major problem within law enforcement is police sexual misconduct (PSM), where law enforcement officers commit sexual offenses while using the power of their position. Bonds of loyalty and trust between fellow officers are strong enough that offenders have no worries about being reported, even if they are caught. Studies have shown that most offending officers were new to the field or recently completed their training at a policing academy. Since many of the officers committing PSM were fresh out of their training, it indicates that the academy is not training its recruits properly on topics of sexual assault and harassment. Prevention efforts against PSM should start within the training academies, where the curriculum can focus on addressing social imbalances and correcting policing culture that enables PSM. Additionally, practical and scenario assessment training can also be implemented to ensure new recruits are properly trained to assess and handle cases of PSM.