College
Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Date of Last Revision
2025-04-26 12:11:02
Major
Criminal Intelligence Analysis
Honors Course
Honors Research in Criminal Justice 501
Number of Credits
3
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2025
Abstract
This paper explores the hiring processes of police chiefs across the United States, focusing on internal versus external hiring practices. The goal of this research was to identify common trends, legislative barriers, and the impact of leadership on the hiring process through historical context, legal analysis, and case studies. The findings suggest that internal hires dominate chief appointments, though external hires are often sought during crises. The paper concludes with recommendations for future research and highlights the need to more fully understand this phenomenon. Understanding the processes and limitations surrounding the appointment of new leadership is critical to reform and organizational stability. Keywords: Chief of Police, Hiring practices, Internal, External, Leadership
Research Sponsor
Noah Fritz
First Reader
Stacey Nofziger
Second Reader
Lia Wiley
Honors Faculty Advisor
David Licate
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Recommended Citation
Walker, Kayleigh, "Internal or External: An Exploration of the United States Police Chief Hiring Process" (2025). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 1971.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/1971
Included in
American Politics Commons, Criminal Law Commons, Criminology and Criminal Justice Commons, Legal History Commons, Legislation Commons