THE STRATEGIC TROOPER: ENHANCING RECRUITMENT THROUGH TRUST, TRANSPARENCY, AND TRANSFORMATION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT'S IMAGE IN THE DIGITAL AGE
Loading...
Authors
Stefanoff, Michael W., Jr.
Subjects
police recruitment
rebranding
reputation management
social media
strategy
law enforcement
media theories
social impacts
hiring
rebranding
reputation management
social media
strategy
law enforcement
media theories
social impacts
hiring
Advisors
Halladay, Carolyn C.
Brown, Shannon A.
Date of Issue
2023-09
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Amid the escalating demands for police transparency and trust, this thesis delves into the potential of social media–based police rebranding to boost public perception and amplify law enforcement recruitment. Scrutinizing these facets through international law enforcement case studies, this study leverages the “strategic trooper” model, inspired by the “strategic corporal” military principle, emphasizing a deep-seated transformation in law enforcement culture and behavior beyond mere rebranding. The results indicate that authenticity—epitomized by trust, transparency, and legitimacy—is pivotal for successful law-enforcement image rebranding and agency transformation. A shallow image change could be counterproductive and be seen by the public as propaganda. With its core tenets, the strategic trooper model could authentically uplift public perception and law enforcement legitimacy, broadening the potential recruit pool. A more comprehensive range of prospective officers could be attracted by fostering an environment of heightened trust and transparency. Implementing the strategic trooper model promises profound, sustainable alterations in law enforcement’s digital persona and recruitment practices, potentially boosting public confidence, community relations, and the appeal of law enforcement as a career choice.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
National Security Affairs (CHDS)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.