Abstract
Utilizing presidential influence theory as a conceptual framework, this study examines the extent to which U.S. presidents
effect police practice case outcome through the Supreme Court justices they nominate. Through their confirmed nominees, presidents
can have an enduring political impact long after they have left office. Results from a sample of 253 Fourth Amendment police
practice cases from 1953–1997 demonstrate that presidents do have an indirect influence on police search and seizure practices.
While presidents do not vote in Supreme Court cases, they still have an effect on case outcome because their appointees generally
vote along similar ideological lines. Specific results, study limitations, and policy implications for law enforcement agencies
are discussed.
effect police practice case outcome through the Supreme Court justices they nominate. Through their confirmed nominees, presidents
can have an enduring political impact long after they have left office. Results from a sample of 253 Fourth Amendment police
practice cases from 1953–1997 demonstrate that presidents do have an indirect influence on police search and seizure practices.
While presidents do not vote in Supreme Court cases, they still have an effect on case outcome because their appointees generally
vote along similar ideological lines. Specific results, study limitations, and policy implications for law enforcement agencies
are discussed.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-17
- DOI 10.1007/s12103-012-9180-4
- Authors
- Christopher M. Donner, Department of Criminology, University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
- Journal American Journal of Criminal Justice
- Online ISSN 1936-1351
- Print ISSN 1066-2316