EARLY IDENTIFICATION & INTERVENTION PROGRAMS (EIIP)

Early identification and intervention programs (EIIP) in law enforcement, are commonly referred to as early warning systems or early identification programs. They are considered a best practice by the Department of Justice and other criminal justice experts because of their ability to mitigate liability risks for organizations while also enhancing their commitments to accountability. EIIPs are non-disciplinary, integrated, risk-assessment tools designed to help organizations identify patterns or practices that may become problematic for organizations and their employees.

As an organizational tool, EIIPs can assist law enforcement with mitigating risks through the early identification of, and intervention with, problematic behaviors exhibited by organizational personnel before they cause extensive damage: to members of the service community, to an organization’s reputation, or to an employee’s career. By using proactive prevention strategies associated with EIIPs, organizations reduce the need for reactive disciplinary measures, thereby reducing the probability of costly lawsuits. More advanced EIIP designs employing a risk management component along with the risk mitigation piece may also help agencies manage their risks by measuring losses associated with lawsuits and discipline. By employing a risk management component, agencies get a better understanding of costs and losses associated with said problematic behaviors.