Understanding data professionals in the police: a qualitative study of system-level bureaucrats

Isabelle Fest, Mirko Schäfer, José van Dijck and Albert Meijer

Public Management Review, 2023, vol. 25, issue 9, 1664-1684

Abstract: Through the introduction of algorithmic systems into police organizations, a new employee emerged: the data professional. Contrary to street-level officers, little is known of the discretionary power of these system-level bureaucrats. Our qualitative research into the Netherlands Police provides a first empirical and theoretical understanding. The study shows that data professionals exert discretion and are aware of public values, but their value-sensitivity often does not translate into responsible practices. Data professionals use a variety of arguments to dissociate themselves from, or downplay, their responsibilities. We conclude that this distancing hampers the connection between the discretion and responsibility of data professionals.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1080/14719037.2023.2222734

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