Casey LaFrance has spent years researching police discretion, a hot topic when he began his research and an equally relevant topic now. LaFrance questions the lines drawn between discretion and protocol and when it is acceptable for police to use discretion rather than follow protocol.
LaFrance offers a new model of discretion that he calls the Target Model of discretion. He argues that other models, specifically Ronald Dwarkin’s “Doughnut Model” of discretion, are outdated and are not sufficient for every circumstance. The target model offers a concise measurement of discretion by layering various factors as having different levels of significance when considering the use of discretion in a given scenario.
LaFrance presents his argument from several different angles in attempt to support the legitimacy of the model. He also incorporates data collected from interviews and surveys given to individuals at varying levels of law enforcement.
Targeting Discretion is a great source for students as well as law enforcement officers. The book is informative and offers an inside look into the process behind every decision an officer makes, and the level of regard officers at various levels of law enforcement give for each decision.
University of North Georgia Press is excited to announce that Targeting Discretion, by Casey LaFrance, will be available for $24.99. Visit the Press’ order website or e-mail at ungpress@ung.edu for information on how to purchase your copy of Targeting Discretion!