Law enforcement agencies are experiencing unprecedented levels of scrutiny from community members regarding use-of-force encounters between officers and community members of color. During these difficult times, the recruitment of candidates for law enforcement agencies has never been more critical or challenging, particularly when it comes to attracting diverse and qualified applicants to an organization. Increasing diversity recruitment within the law enforcement ranks not only helps add to the candidate pool from which to hire applicants, but it also helps to signal inclusion and legitimacy to minority communities looking to see representation and support from police departments.

While more than 70 percent of law enforcement agencies report an increased difficulty in recruiting applicants to the profession, few law enforcement agencies leverage data to help inform and guide the department’s recruitment strategies and resource deployment. With current COVID-19 economic woes challenging nearly all departments, leveraging data and technology to ensure the greatest return on investment has never been more critical. A recent research study conducted by Dr. Ryan Durbin identified the significance and opportunities that exist for data utilization regarding the recruitment strategies and programs operating in law enforcement agencies today.