Which outcome is most associated with bias-based policing?

• A. It undermines public trust and legal legitimacy
• B. It strengthens public trust
• C. It has no effect on legitimacy
• D. It improves community relations

Answer: (A)

Bias-based policing occurs when enforcement decisions are influenced by officers’ biased views about a person’s race, ethnicity, or other characteristics rather than their behavior. This undermines public trust because people see policing as unfair and discriminatory, which damages the perceived legitimacy of the legal system. When people doubt that the law is applied equitably, they’re less likely to cooperate, report crimes, or comply with officers’ requests, which weakens overall public safety and the social contract between police and the community. While some may worry about short-term gains from targeting certain groups, the lasting impact is a breakdown of trust and legitimacy. So, the outcome most associated with bias-based policing is a loss of public trust and perceived legitimacy.