Robertson and Chaney examine how the early antecedents of police brutality like plantation overseers, the lynching of African American males, early race riots, the Rodney King incident, and the Los Angeles Rampart Scandal have directly impacted the current relationship between communities of color and police. Using a phenomenological framework, they analyze how African American college students perceive police to determine how race, gender, and education create different realities among a demographic. Based on their qualitative and quantitative findings, Robertson and Chaney offer recommended policies and strategies for police and communities to improve relationships and perceptions between the two.

Ray V. Robertson is associate professor of sociology at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.Cassandra D. Chaney is professor of child and family studies at Louisiana State University.

Chapter 1: Black People In America: A Legacy Of MaltreatmentChapter 2: Early Antecedents of Police Brutality against African AmericansChapter 3: MethodologyChapter 4: College Students Perceptions of Members of Law EnforcementChapter 5: Discussion