The Shift from Two Officers per Unit to Solo Policing: Budget vs. Safety

Police departments across the nation have made a significant shift from assigning two officers to each squad car to a single officer per vehicle. This change raises numerous questions, particularly when dealing with volatile situations that could be dangerous for both officers and suspects. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this shift, the implications for de-escalation, and the potential risks involved.

Why Police Departments Are Single Officers Per Unit

The transition to one officer per vehicle is largely driven by budgetary constraints. Municipalities and city budgets often face significant financial pressures, and the cost of maintaining and operating multiple officers per unit can be exorbitant. With each additional officer, there is a rise in necessary resources such as vehicles, fuel, and maintenance costs. This notional cost is often seen as wasteful, especially when combined with the increasing need for technological upgrades and officer training.

Another reason for this change lies in the operational realities of police patrol. In many instances, when a traffic stop is made, a second vehicle arrives almost immediately, suggesting that the presence of an additional officer is neither necessary nor cost-effective as often as it is believed. This leads to the expenditure of unnecessary tax dollars and resources, particularly when an officer could handle the situation alone.

Budget, Safety, and Practical Considerations

Tel Aviv and London operate with a one-man-per-car model, which is also what the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) switched to, initially under the leadership of Chief William Parker. The reasoning behind this change was that having a single officer would deter officers from engaging in corrupt practices, as the presence of a partner was deemed to create a more transparent and accountable environment.

Yet, the primary driver for the switch remains budgetary. Many police agencies now prioritize having more units on patrol rather than maintaining a higher number of officers per unit. This allows for greater coverage, potentially increasing the sense of security within communities. However, this shift has also raised concerns about officer safety, particularly during high-risk situations that require immediate de-escalation.

De-escalation Techniques and Safety Concerns

De-escalation techniques are crucial in many police interactions, but they are significantly riskier when just one officer is involved. Without a partner, the officer is more exposed to potential violence and has less leverage to negotiate or calm situations. In many cases, suspects might see the single officer as a less formidable opponent, increasing the likelihood of aggressive actions. This, in turn, could jeopardize the officer's safety and the outcome of the situation.

For example, if a suspect chooses to shoot first in a solo officer's presence, the outcome might be dire, as the officer must instinctively act to protect herself without the support of another officer. In contrast, a partner could potentially intervene or act as a deterrent, potentially preventing such a situation from escalating.

Despite the potential risks, it is important to note that multi-officer teams are not immune to such scenarios. In these setups, the officer’s decision-making and the need to assess risks are still crucial. The presence of a partner can provide a psychological reassurance, but the final decision on whether to engage or de-escalate the situation still lies with the officer.

Conclusion: Balancing Budget and Safety

The decision to move from two officers per squad car to one officer per unit is a complex one that involves balancing budgetary needs with the safety of officers and the public. While budgetary constraints play a significant role, the impact of this shift on de-escalation techniques and officer safety is a major concern. Policymakers and police administrators must continually evaluate these factors to ensure that the public remains safe while also maintaining cost-efficiency.

Therefore, finding a balance that maximizes safety and minimizes costs is crucial. This could involve investing more in training, technology, and support for solo officers to handle high-risk situations, while also exploring ways to optimize patrol strategies and resource allocation. By doing so, police departments can better serve the communities they protect while maintaining financial sustainability.