Why I Don’t Like the Phrase “Defund the Police”

After the George Floyd protests, “defund the police” became a rallying cry for some and a dog whistle for others. Now, years later, it’s been repeated so often that it’s lost much of its original meaning. While I understand and share the frustrations that inspired it, I don’t agree with the solution it suggests. The problem isn’t the existence of police departments—it’s making sure they have the proper resources, training, and accountability to serve their communities effectively. Proper funding, not defunding, is how we get there.

Why Robust Police Funding Matters

Police funding is about much more than just paying salaries or buying equipment. It’s about smart investments in the education, training, and support systems that prepare officers to handle the complex realities they face daily. Challenges like mental health crises, addiction, and homelessness require more than instinct—they demand a solid understanding of sociology, psychology, and de-escalation techniques. Without proper resources and training, officers are left ill-equipped, increasing the likelihood of failure in high-stakes situations.

Consider this: a nationwide survey revealed that over 11% of police interactions involve individuals with mental illnesses. Additionally, a study by the Treatment Advocacy Center found that mental health issues contribute to 1 in 4—and sometimes up to half—of all fatal police shootings. Despite the frequency of these incidents, only about 15% of police agencies in the U.S. have crisis intervention teams (CITs)—specialized units trained to handle mental health emergencies and connect individuals with appropriate services. This means just 2,700 agencies nationwide have such programs, leaving a significant gap in resources and expertise.

Accountability is also a cornerstone of effective law enforcement, and proper funding plays a significant role in making it possible. Take body-worn cameras, for example. A study published in the Journal of Quantitative Criminology found that police use-of-force incidents were cut in half when officers were equipped with body-worn cameras, and complaints against officers dropped by nearly 90%. However, many departments struggle to implement these tools universally due to the high costs associated with purchasing equipment, maintaining it, and securely storing the footage. With adequate funding, these barriers could be removed, enabling departments to improve transparency, accountability, and trust with the communities they serve.

Proper funding isn’t just about better policing—it’s about creating safer, more accountable communities while equipping officers with the tools and training they need to meet the demands of modern law enforcement effectively.

Supporting Officers’ Mental Health

Funding is also critical for addressing the mental health challenges officers face. Policing can be one of the most stressful jobs out there, with first responders like officers experiencing higher rates of PTSD, depression, and anxiety than the general population. Investments in mental health resources, peer support programs, and counseling services are essential—not just for the well-being of officers but for the communities that rely on them. Healthy, supported officers are more likely to make sound decisions and carry out their duties with empathy and professionalism.

Critics often point to inefficiencies or mismanagement within law enforcement budgets, and those concerns are valid. They highlight the need for robust oversight and financial accountability. But abandoning the entire system because of its flaws is like leaving a car on the side of the road over a flat tire—it’s a short-sighted solution to a fixable problem. Smarter, more targeted funding can address these issues and create a system that works better for everyone.

Addressing Root Causes

Finally, we can’t talk about funding law enforcement without recognizing the broader societal structures that intersect with policing. Poverty, lack of access to education, and systemic inequality are all root causes of crime and the challenges officers face daily. Properly funding law enforcement isn’t just about providing officers with more tools—it’s about building partnerships with social services, schools, and community organizations to address these underlying issues. A well-resourced police force, working alongside these systems, can make a real, lasting impact on public safety and community trust.

Smart Funding Over Simple Slogans

In conclusion, the slogan “defund the police” misses the mark because it oversimplifies a socially and economically complex issue. The real conversation we need to have is about smart funding. Proper investment in law enforcement, coupled with accountability and community collaboration, can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. A well-trained, well-supported police force isn’t just a win for officers—it’s a win for society.

By focusing on solutions rather than slogans, we can work toward a future where law enforcement is a model of excellence, integrity, and trust. That’s the vision we should all strive for.

Sources cited:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10940-014-9236-3