Dr. Lorraine Mazerolle: A Passion for Evidence-Based Policing: Perspective from Australia

The CopDoc Podcast Leadership Newsletter

Stephen A. Morreale, Worcester State University and Liberty University ????????????????????????????????Host: The CopDoc Podcast

Note: This article is created from an interview between Steve and Lorraine on The CopDoc Podcast.? It has been distilled and synthesized for reading by the author with the assistance of AI, using ChatGPT, a text generator.

Introduction:

In a fascinating conversation with Dr. Lorraine Mazerolle from the University of Queensland, we delve into her journey in criminology and her groundbreaking work in evidence-based policing. Dr. Mazerolle's dedication to understanding the effectiveness of various policing strategies has led her to establish the Global Policing Database, a comprehensive resource for law enforcement agencies worldwide. Let's explore her remarkable story and the impact of her research.

In a recent podcast interview, Dr. Lorraine Mazerolle, a prominent researcher at the University of Queensland, discussed various aspects of policing and security, highlighting the differences between Australia and the United States. While acknowledging the challenges faced by Australia, such as homelessness, drug use, and poverty, Dr. Mazerolle emphasized the absence of widespread violence and gun-related issues in Australian society. She also emphasized the well-resourced nature of policing in Australia, the standardized training, and the favorable conditions under which police officers work. However, Dr. Mazerolle acknowledged that the structure of American policing presents unique difficulties in implementing broad-based transformations.

From a Dream to Reality:

Dr. Mazerolle's interest in criminology began at a young age when she aspired to become a criminologist. However, she faced a setback when she was unable to meet the height requirement for joining the police force. Undeterred, she pursued a degree in economics, which eventually led her to the field of criminology through a sociology of deviance course. Her passion for research and understanding the social dynamics of crime paved the way for her future endeavors.

Academic Pursuits and Mentors:

After completing her education in Australia, Dr. Mazerolle had the opportunity to work with influential figures in the field of policing, such as David Bayley and Ron Clarke. Their guidance and mentorship motivated her to further her studies in the United States. She joined Rutgers University, where she worked on a project focused on policing drug markets during the crack cocaine epidemic. The experience proved pivotal in shaping her career as a policing academic.

The University of Queensland:

Currently a full professor at the University of Queensland, Dr. Mazerolle plays a vital role in the Criminology and Criminal Justice Program. The university, ranked among the top 50 institutions globally, offers a small but diverse criminology program. Dr. Mazerolle's research focuses on policing partnerships, examining how collaboration between police and other entities can enhance crime prevention efforts. She has explored partnerships in counter-terrorism, drug control, disorder management, and most recently, police-school collaborations to reduce delinquency and promote education.

The Global Policing Database:

One of Dr. Mazerolle's significant achievements is the creation of the Global Policing Database. Over the past decade, she has tirelessly compiled an extensive collection of evaluation evidence related to policing practices. The database encompasses studies from various fields, including psychology, health, and business, providing a holistic perspective on what works in different aspects of policing. With over 300,000 unique records dating back to 1950, the Global Policing Database is a valuable resource for law enforcement agencies worldwide.

To ensure the accessibility of the Global Policing Database, Dr. Mazerolle and her team are currently working on refining the website. They aim to establish partnerships with police agencies across different continents, enabling them to subscribe to the database for a nominal fee. By making evidence-based policing resources readily available, Dr. Mazerolle hopes to empower police professionals with the knowledge necessary to enhance their strategies and outcomes.

The Challenge of Context:

While the Global Policing Database offers a wealth of information, Dr. Mazerolle acknowledges the need for contextual considerations. Strategies that have shown success in one country may not directly translate to another due to cultural, social, and legal differences. Nonetheless, the database facilitates cross-jurisdictional communication, allowing agencies to exchange ideas and gain insights from diverse perspectives.

Challenges Faced by the United States

Discussing recent events, Dr. Mazerolle expressed her shock and horror at the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, describing it as an assault on democracy. She also referenced other tragic events, such as the 9/11 terrorist attacks and school shootings, which influenced her decision to return to Australia. The conversation touched upon the Uvalde school shooting and the apparent missteps of responding law enforcement officers, leading to a reflection on the need for improvement in police response protocols.

Australia's Approach to Terrorism and Cyber-Attacks

Dr. Mazerolle noted that while terrorism remains a concern in Australia, the country's different history and position in the world offer some protective factors. She highlighted that cyber-attacks pose a significant threat, requiring constant management and adaptability. The interview shed light on Australia's vulnerability despite being an island nation, emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness.

Police-Academia Relationship and Policing During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The conversation turned toward the relationship between police agencies and academia, highlighting the changing dynamics over time. Dr. Mazerolle shared her experience of initially facing skepticism from the Queensland police when proposing a collaboration with academics. However, through building trust and understanding the questions that interested the police, she established a positive relationship that spanned two decades. The COVID-19 pandemic was discussed as a significant setback for field research in policing. The increased responsibilities placed on the police, including enforcing public health measures and managing mental health and domestic violence issues, limited their capacity for active research projects.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Policing and Future Prospects

Dr. Mazerolle acknowledged that the pandemic had challenged police agencies' adaptability and hindered their ability to engage in forward-thinking research. Policing in the post-pandemic era would require several years of recovery and recalibration. The interview shed light on the toll the pandemic took on police officers, with many working tirelessly for extended periods without taking leave.

Conclusion

The interview with Dr. Lorraine Mazerolle provided valuable insights into the policing landscape in Australia, highlighting the differences between Australia and the United States. The discussion encompassed the challenges faced by both countries, the impact of significant events on policing, and the evolving relationship between academia and law enforcement. Dr. Mazerolle expressed optimism about the transformative potential of policing and the importance of continued research and collaboration in the field.

Dr. Lorraine Mazerolle's unwavering dedication to evidence-based policing has revolutionized the field. Through the establishment of the Global Policing Database, she has provided a comprehensive resource that empowers law enforcement agencies to make informed decisions. Her ongoing commitment to bridging the gap between research and practice will undoubtedly shape the future of policing, creating safer communities worldwide.

Reference

Transcript from an interview between Steve Morreale and Dr. Lorraine Mazerolle, episode #78, July 26, 2022, www.copdoc.podcast.com

? (2024) The CopDoc Podcast — Dr. Stephen A. Morreale

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