This disseration is under indefinite Embargo


ABSTRACT

Approximately nine percent of the United States (U.S.) population is deaf and/or hard of hearing.  This population entails distinct communities, hard of hearing, deaf, and Deaf, each requiring separate distinct services.   Law enforcement agencies are to incorporate policies to ensure that equal access is being given to those individuals who are deaf and/or hard of hearing, as they are protected under the American’s with Disabilities Act.  The Monell decision set a precedent for law enforcement agencies to implement policies in order to avoid § 1983 lawsuits.  Officers must be trained to ensure that policies are effectively implemented to achieve effective communication.  Law enforcement agencies must provide communication aids and services free of charge requested by the individual, based on their mode of communication.  Through a convenience sample of 68 existing law enforcement policies, the study was conducted to evaluate those policies as well as provide policy recommendations.  Identifying deficiencies in the existing policies can assist law enforcement administration in establishing a risk management plan.   The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) provides sufficient resources in assisting law enforcement agencies in achieving effective communication with individuals who are deaf and/or hard of hearing.