Phoenix [Arizona] Use of Force Project, June 1994

The researchers collected data primarily using a two-page survey form completed by Phoenix police officers following most adult custody arrests made during a two-week period beginning June 13, 1994. and officer and suspect characteristics. The survey was developed during the fall of 1993, tested during a one-day feasibility study in February 1994, and subsequently revised for use. In addition, the researchers constructed a screening survey of officers and a sample of suspects booked in the Maricopa County Jail to test the reliability of the survey responses and to obtain additional details about the nature of the arrest that could not be obtained in the officer survey form. The results of these screening interviews are contained in Part 2, Police Screen Interview Data, and Part 3, Suspect Screen Interview Data. Both the officer surveys and the officer/suspect interviews were voluntary and anonymous. No officer or suspect identifiers were collected, and the only information obtained about the arrests came from the survey forms. These procedures were implemented to encourage participation and truthful responses and to protect the anonymity of research subjects. With the data, the researchers were able to compare the detailed information in the officer survey with the measures of force and to develop multivariate statistical models for evaluation.