to the Fraternal Order of Police. Other organizations with substantial membership representation among the sample were the Combined Counties Police Association (33.3 percent) and the Illinois Police Association 20.4 percent). Respondents paid a mean of $287.30 annually in dues for membership in law enforcement organizations.
Five research questions were investigated through the conduct of this study. The major findings of the study are summarized separately in relation to each research question.
Research question number one asked the following: To what degree do officers believe that associations have impacted their wages, insurance, legal defense, and benefits? Mean responses in relation to each of these factors were negative. Generally, respondents indicated that law enforcement officers associations were least effective in relation to insurance coverage and costs, and most effective in relation to wage levels.
Research question number two asked the following: To what extent do officers believe that associations have been successful in helping their members with legal advice in the areas of administrative disciplinary actions, civil, and criminal complaints while on the job? Mean responses in relation to each of these factors were negative. Generally, respondents indicated that law enforcement officers associationss were least effective in assisting members with criminal complaints, and most effective in the area of administrative discipline. Respondents strongly favored a policy whereby law enforcement officers associations provide legal defense for members regardless of whether a particular case holds implications for all a
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