Conceptual framework for police deviance applied to police crime court cases

Abstract

Purpose – A conceptual framework for police deviance and crime has recently been suggested and presented by other scholars. This research attempts to test the framework empirically based on court cases where police employees were prosecuted and convicted. Design/methodology/approach – The sliding slope in the conceptual framework was separated into two dimensions, motive and damage, respectively. Court cases were coded according to these dimensions. Findings – Empirical results provide support for the framework by linking seriousness to court sentence in terms of imprisonment days to the sliding slope. However, further validation of the framework is needed. Originality/value – It is useful to both academics and practitioners to have an organizing framework when considering police complaints and prosecuting police crime.