The Past Ferguson Era: Police Community Relations in Times of Crisis

Dr. Vaughn Crichlow
University of Connecticut

The death of Michael Brown at the hands of white Ferguson Police Officer has uncovered an apparent legitimacy crisis at the heart of American policing. Some have claimed that de-policing may have led officers to become less proactive. How exactly has less policing of gangs and violence changed in the Post-Ferguson era? This presentation is based on participant observation, field notes, and in-depth interviews with officers, offenders, practitioners, gang-involved young offenders, and community members. Demands for police reform have once again come into focus following George Floyd's death. The aim of the presentation is to inform future policing practices to promote effective crime prevention and to gain public trust. Vaughn Crichlow and Ross Deuchar will give a deep in-depth insight view based on their acclaimed book with the same title.