How do police adapt a procedural justice script during random breath test traffic stops? An analysis of body-worn camera transcripts

This study objectively assesses how police officers applied procedural justice principles during random breath test (RBT) traffic stops. This study analysed 159 body-worn camera (BWC) transcripts from 18 procedural justice RBT traffic intervention days. Police officers were given a script containing the four elements of neutrality, trustworthy motives, voice and dignity and respect, and a short training video on how to deliver the script. They were asked to review the script and adapt in their own wording. Analysis found officers demonstrated high compliance with some elements but struggled with more complex components requiring two-way communication or emotional engagement, such as safety explanations or road toll statistics. The random nature of interceptions was also inconsistently communicated. These findings highlight a disparity between espousing procedural justice principles and their application by frontline officers. Findings further suggest the need for enhanced training focusing on practical implementation, regular refresher sessions, and script refinement.