Improving the Quality and Competency of Leadership in Law Enforcement through Adequate Continued Educational Development

Failing to adequately prepare law enforcement officers for middle management leadership or supervisor roles can prove to be a hinderance to the operations of the organization as well as having a negative effect on moral and retention of quality officers. This study sought to investigate causes and find solutions to quality leadership development for leaders and supervisors, within the organization, who lack the experience level to fulfill the role. Participants for data collection in Cycle 1 consisted of law enforcement officers who offered focus areas for a Leadership Development Series designated as Leadership Labs. Action steps were designed, implemented, and evaluated in Cycle 2 to provide support for leaders within the department to strengthen their understanding of the need and desire for a developmental series for leaders and supervisors, rather than training. The Leadership Development Series was delivered to a cohort of emerging leaders and focused on key leadership competency areas such as leadership, communication, self-awareness, and support systems: mentorship and advising. Three sessions were developed and facilitated by the researcher through a third-party leadership consulting firm. Evaluating the results of the Action Research study included a thorough assessment of predefined learning outcomes. The officers who participated in the leadership labs provided critical feedback that assisted in the evaluation process. The study concluded that sustained engagement and continued education can be sustained with leaders in the organization by proactively investing in leadership development through intentional training in key competency areas. Implications for the organization included sustained engagement among law enforcement leaders and supervisors with improved competency and morale throughout the organization overall. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]