PULLMAN — Washington State University researchers will present their findings on June 28 from phase three of a four-year study examining whether there are any patterns of racial or ethnic bias or profiling in traffic stops.
The study, conducted at the request of the Washington State Patrol, examined data from more than a million traffic stops. Two presentations will be made – in Spokane and Seattle.
A report, entitled “Assessment of Racial and Ethnic Equity and Bias in Stops, Citations and Searches Using Multivariate Quantitative and Multi-method Qualitative Research Techniques,” has been issued by the research team. The findings detailed in that report indicate that the team found no systematic pattern of racially/ethnically disproportionate contact or citation.
WSU researchers Michael J. Gaffney, Nicholas P. Lovrich and Clayton Mosher will present their findings and respond to questions at 10:30 a.m. in Spokane on the WSU Spokane campus, 310 N. Riverpoint Blvd., and at 3 p.m. in Bellevue at the WSP District 2 Headquarters, 2803 156th Ave. S.E., Bellevue.
Not present will be the other members of the research team, professors Mitch Pickerill and Travis Pratt and researcher Jennifer Albright. The WSP will be represented by Chief John Batiste and assistant chief Brian Ursino, Field Operations Bureau.
The research team reviewed data on more than a million traffic stops conducted by the WSP as well as photo identifications of citizens stopped and/or searched to identify and confirm race. They also conducted follow-up surveys of thousands of citizens relating to their treatment during a traffic stop, as well as focus group sessions of citizens and WSP officers and supervisors across the state.
One of the major issues facing law enforcement today is the issue of racial profiling. The perception of racially discriminatory policing within minority communities erodes trust and undermines law enforcement efforts. The independent, university-based analysis was done to promote community outreach and dialogue and to provide findings which might be used to enhance professional standards within all of law enforcement.
Next Story
Exhibit explores queer experience on the Palouse
An opening reception for “Higher Ground: An Exhibition of Art, Ephemera, and Form” will take place 6–8 p.m. Friday on the ground floor of the Terrell Library on the Pullman campus.
Recent News
Phyllis J. Campbell endows deanship at WSU’s Carson College of Business
The endowed deanship stems from a generous gift from Phyllis and Bill Campbell of Issaquah, who met as WSU undergraduates and married not long after Phyllis’ graduation.
Spanish, bilingual course from WSU Extension creates climate ambassadors
To reach thousands of northwestern Washington residents who do not speak English fluently, WSU Extension is offering new environmental educational programs in Spanish.
VR can motivate people to donate to refugee crises regardless of politics
A new WSU-led study shows virtual reality technology may have the ability to bridge the gap between different ideologies and motivate people to show more generosity.
Todd Butler resigns as College of Arts and Sciences dean
Associate Dean Courtney Meehan will serve as interim dean for a two‑year term to allow for a national search set to launch in 2025.
Tri-state team releases calendar guide for more productive, sustainable pastures
Experts drew on knowledge of the complex landscapes and seasonal rhythms of the Inland Pacific Northwest for a new year-round guide to boost the productivity of the region’s pastureland.
WSU to study effect of controversial drug on racehorses
Overall, the WSU team plans to analyze information gathered from about 30,000 racehorses to determine the future use of the drug furosemide in horse racing.