This study investigates whether receiving military equipment through the US Department of Defense' 1033 program increases police violence. We theorize that militarized law enforcement agencies experience increased operational and cultural militarization, potentially leading to more violent incidents.
Data & Methods: Using regression analysis on data from LEAs across the United States.
* Dependent variables capture three dimensions of civilian harm during officer-involved shootings:
* Number of civilian deaths
* Change in number of civilian deaths over time
* Number of dogs killed by police
* Independent variable measures total excess military equipment transferred under the 1033 program.
Key Findings: Results consistently show a positive, statistically significant relationship between receiving this equipment and increased fatal officer-involved shootings. The findings suggest that militarization may contribute to lethal force incidents against civilians.