What is the essence of "procedural justice" in policing?

The essence of "procedural justice" in policing focuses on the fairness of the processes and procedures used by law enforcement, rather than solely on the outcomes of those processes. This concept emphasizes the importance of treating individuals with fairness, respect, and neutrality during interactions with the police. It suggests that when people perceive that they are treated fairly and justly, they are more likely to view the legal system positively, leading to increased public trust and cooperation with law enforcement.

Fair legal outcomes are certainly important, but procedural justice highlights that individuals should feel that they were treated justly during the enforcement of laws, regardless of the outcomes of their cases. Speed of response, enforcement of laws, and the reputation of police officers play roles in policing but do not encapsulate the fundamental principle of procedural justice, which is the focus on fairness in the policing process itself. This approach helps in fostering a constructive relationship between law enforcement and the community it serves.