Starting off on the right foot: the importance of proper background investigations

Law enforcement administrators need to focus on the selection procedure to reduce cases of police misconduct. Emphasis on comprehensive background investigation will facilitate informed hiring decisions. Disclosure of previous misconduct of the applicants will ward off individuals with dangerous behavioral problems. However, investigations into the past performance of the applicants must adhere to fair employment practices. Operating procedures regarding investigation and evaluation of subsequent information need to be uniform for all applicants.