Police officers’ perceptions of their role at overdose events: a qualitative study

Original research
by
Xavier, Jessica et al

Release Date

2022

Geography

Canada

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

Our study aimed to uncover the role police perceive for themselves at overdose events.

Findings/Key points

Police officers perceived their primary role was to ensure the safety of first responders and bystanders at overdose events. Some officers favored enforcing mandatory treatment and used coercive practices to ensure overdose victims received further medical care.

Design/methods

22 qualitative interviews

Keywords

Legal system/law enforcement
Overdose
Policy/Regulatory