African American Men and The Police: A Christ Solution for the New Millennium

Aggressive, sometimes fatal encounters between law enforcement and African-American men have become commonplace in US society. The situation is untenable, requiring a nationwide effort to build trust and understanding on both sides. The solution, Reverend Dr. Maulin C. Herring argues, lies in biblical principles and a firm spiritual foundation. A veteran of law enforcement, an instructor of criminal justice college courses, and an ordained minister, Herring sees both sides of the struggle, making him an ideal mediator for this complex, often volatile problem. Herring offers a systematic, evidence-based model for change, using practical theology and cultural conflict theory to educate African-American men and police officers on improving relationships through Christian principles-resulting in positive community encounters, lower rates of community crime, and changes to criminal justice policies. Herring's system incorporates a sermon, Bible study, workshops revealing the relationship between Christian men and police authority, and roundtable discussions with law enforcement to facilitate understanding on both sides of the issue. A bold model for change easily duplicated throughout the United States, Herring's spiritual approach to a secular crisis offers hope for mutual change and understanding for the betterment of individuals, the community, and the nation.