How can the accountability of law enforcement be improved to preserve and maintain the trust of the public?

This study used a mixed-methods approach and a transformative worldview to critically analyze secondary data on how the accountability of law enforcement can be improved to preserve and maintain the trust of the public. The scope of this research was limited to the general public in Canada, RCMP members, and members from other municipal police agencies in British Columbia and their perspectives toward public trust in the RCMP. This research will explore the question: How can accountability of law enforcement be improved to preserve and maintain the trust of the public? The themes explored in this study include the challenges of police oversight, civilian oversight and independent investigation, the trust and perception of the public and the increased transparency of investigations. The general public perceives a lack of trust in the RCMP is due to the lack of independent investigations and a lack of transparency in the investigative process. Additionally, challenges in the complaints process are discussed as well as the influence social media has on police misconduct and public trust.