Minority groups from all spheres of life are disproportionately affected by actual or perceived racial profiling by law enforcement officers. Concerns about the use of race, ethnicity, or national origin in identifying suspects for detentions, searches, and arrests have long existed among the public and law enforcement (Shusta et al., 2019). In light of these factors, I think that the idea of racial profiling in policing is a legitimate and impartial means to carry out police operations. Moreover, the issue and effects of questionnaire usage and profiling provide serious difficulties for criminal justice authorities (Shusta et al., 2019). To guarantee that discretion is not used more frequently against minorities, law enforcement authorities must keep an eye on the data they gather while requesting discretionary authorization.
Racial profiling has several drawbacks that are clear to many nations. Even in young children, the psychological effects of racial profiling can result in antisocial conduct (Shusta et al., 2019). A further possible long-term impact of profiling is a raised possibility of prosecution. Additionally, it could make everyone in the neighborhood feel unsafe. People who are being profiled feel in danger since they are unsure of the official’s response in the event that they have suspicions of a crime. Simultaneously, people who are not profiled experience anxiety as a result of being warned that somebody they dislike may hurt them. Additionally, racial profiling may be challenged in court on a number of constitutional grounds. This might involve determining whether such profiling infringes on the equal protection protections of the Fourteenth Amendment or the ban against unreasonable search and seizure (Shusta et al., 2019). These elements serve as warning signs since they emphasize the need to quit such behaviors.
Reference
Shusta, R., Levine, D. & Olson, A. (2019). Multicultural law enforcement: Strategies for peacekeeping in a diverse society. Pearson.