Biography
Jacinta Gau studies policing, criminal justice policy and organizational behavior. Her research examines how police officers’ perceptions of legitimacy, occupational culture, and community interactions shape decision-making and engagement in policing. Gau investigates factors such as military experience, public scrutiny and media exposure to better understand how structural and cultural dynamics influence law enforcement outcomes.
In collaboration with public defender offices and advocacy organizations, Gau also engages in community-based research exploring the impact of jury selection practices and legal procedures in the justice system. Using mixed-method and quantitative approaches, she analyzes policing practices, organizational reforms and public policy to inform evidence-based strategies that improve institutional legitimacy. She is committed to applied research that helps police agencies, policymakers and communities implement reforms to enhance justice and public trust.
- Department
- Criminal Justice
