Using a multidimensional Rasch model approach to measure the police's perceived ability to detect, detain and intercept DWI vehicles when conducting sobriety checkpoints

This study developed a scale to measure 502 Taiwan traffic police officers’ perceived ability to detect, detain, and intercept those vehicles whose drivers are driving while intoxicated (DWI) when conducting sobriety checkpoints. Through factor analysis, the officers’ enforcement ability was found to consist of two component latent traits: detecting ability (DA) and detaining and intercepting ability (DIA). A multidimensional approach of Rasch models was then applied to measure the police officers’ perceived abilities and particular difficulties in conducting sobriety checkpoints. The study results indicated that the majority of police officers performed well in detecting DWI vehicles, but half of the study participants lacked confidence in detaining DWI vehicles and intercepting escaping DWI vehicles. DWI with weaving was found to be the most aggressive and threatening behavior to traffic police when conducting sobriety checkpoints. Police officers over age 46 were found to have significantly lower DA and DIA, while branch captains were found to have significantly higher DA than their colleagues. Several strategies and programs are suggested based on the study findings to improve the enforcement ability of police officers.

► We measure traffic police officers’ perceived ability to detect, detain, and intercept driving while intoxicated (DWI) when conducting sobriety checkpoints.
► The enforcement abilities consist of detecting ability (DA) and detaining and intercepting ability (DIA).
► Police officers perform well in DA, but that half of them are less effective in DIA.
► Age and police rank affect the enforcement abilities.
► DWI with weaving is the most aggressive behavior to traffic police.