What is the purpose of fair and impartial policing?

The purpose of fair and impartial policing primarily focuses on prohibiting the arbitrary use of police power based on race or ethnicity. This principle ensures that law enforcement practices are based on objective criteria and not influenced by biases or stereotypes. By prioritizing fairness and impartiality, police agencies work towards building trust and legitimacy within the communities they serve. This approach is essential in promoting public confidence in law enforcement and ensuring that all individuals are treated equitably under the law, regardless of their background.

While enhancing community relations is important and can be a byproduct of fair policing, the core goal centers on eliminating bias and ensuring that policing practices are equitable. Establishing recruitment quotas and stricter law enforcement policies may also be relevant considerations for police departments, but these do not embody the essential aim of fair and impartial policing, which fundamentally seeks to protect individuals from discriminatory practices.