What is meant by "bias" in the context of civil rights and policing?

Bias, in the context of civil rights and policing, refers specifically to the unequal treatment of individuals based on personal characteristics such as race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or other identifiable traits. This phenomenon leads to disparities in how law enforcement interacts with different individuals or groups, often resulting in discrimination and injustice.

In the field of policing, bias can manifest in various ways, including racial profiling, where individuals are stopped or searched based on their race rather than objective evidence of wrongdoing. Understanding bias is essential for law enforcement professionals as it directly impacts community trust, the integrity of policing practices, and the overall mission to uphold justice and equality.

The other options do not accurately define bias. Fair treatment entails equality, which contrasts with the concept of bias. Strict adherence to constitutional law and judgment based solely on evidence implies objectivity in practice, while bias indicates a deviation from fairness and impartiality.