Problem
The problem the study aimed to address:
The Bend Police Department (BPD) sought to evaluate its performance in achieving community policing goals, such as building trust, enhancing engagement with residents, and addressing public safety concerns.
General impact on the system and/or public:
Public perceptions of safety, trust in the police, and cooperation with law enforcement directly affect the effectiveness of community policing strategies and the quality of life in Bend.
Research Questions:
- Do residents trust the local police?
- Do residents feel BPD officers treat them fairly?
- Do residents feel safe in Bend?
- What public safety issues are of greatest concern to residents?
- Has BPD been successful in managing public safety and engaging the community?
- What improvements can increase public trust and cooperation?
- Have perceptions or realities changed since the 2017 survey?
Method and Analysis
Program evaluated or gaps addressed::
The study assessed BPD’s alignment with its Five-Year Strategic Plan (2015–2020) goals and identified areas for improvement in public safety and community engagement.
Data and Sample Size:
- Randomly selected sample: 4,000 households were invited; 712 surveys (17.8%) were completed.
- Additional responses: 291 from broader community engagement via social media.
Analysis Used:
Statistical comparisons of survey responses, including trust scales, perceived safety ratings, and demographic variations. Key variables such as age, gender, crime victimization, and recent police contact were examined.
Outcome
Key Findings:
- Safety: 90% of residents feel safe walking during the day; however, nighttime safety is lower, especially downtown and in parks.
- Trust: 80% of respondents trust BPD, with increases from 2017 levels.
- Cooperation: Most respondents are willing to cooperate in crime control efforts.
- Public concerns: Violent crime, illegal drugs, and traffic safety were ranked as top priorities, despite relatively low violent crime rates.
- Performance ratings: BPD’s ratings improved since 2017, particularly in community engagement and trust-building efforts.
Implications or Recommendations:
- Enhance communication: Improve follow-up with crime victims and use diverse methods (social media, newsletters, community meetings) to engage residents.
- Increase patrols: Prioritize downtown areas at night to address safety concerns and perceptions of disorder.
- Focus on training: Address community concerns on diversity, mental health responses, and procedural justice.
- Resource allocation: Invest in additional staffing and innovative programs to sustain engagement and public trust.
This report offers a valuable framework for improving police-community relations and public safety management in similar urban settings.