Ethics in Criminal Justice Practice Test 2026 - All-in-One Guide to Master Your Exam!

Time of year does not have a reliable, consistent link to police use of force. Research across departments shows that force incidents are better predicted by the specifics of the encounter—such as the behavior and threat level of the suspect, and the officer’s assessment of risk—than by seasonal timing. In contrast, suspects’ mental illness is associated with higher force use because these scenarios often involve de-escalation challenges, unpredictability, and perceived danger. Gang membership among suspects is likewise linked to greater force, reflecting higher threat perception, potential weapon involvement, or more volatile interactions. The presence of onlookers can also influence decisions to use force, as officers may feel pressure to demonstrate control or respond in ways that align with public scrutiny. So, the factor not associated with use of force, according to research, is time of year.