Women began working as police officers in the United States as early as the 1890s. Women made up 12.6% of all U.S. sworn police officers in 2018. [1] Employed largely as prison matrons in the 19th …

Key findings reveal that women comprise only 14% of sworn officers and less than 9% of chiefs in state and local law enforcement nationwide. Yet, research shows that female officers are linked to reduced …

Dec 11, 2024 · In the linked stories: you will learn about 16 female officers and deputies and the challenges and rewards they have experienced in their careers. You’ll learn why they chose to …

Based on their experiences across many different roles within law enforcement agencies, combined with their advanced education and work as advocates for female law enforcement officers, they have …

Apr 23, 2025 · Female officers are increasingly joining police forces worldwide, bringing fresh perspectives, inclusive approaches, and significant reforms to policing. But what does this …

Dec 10, 2024 · From the pioneering efforts of the first known female police officers to the contemporary contributions of officers like Gasparini, Clasby and Bland, the journey of women in law enforcement …

Apr 22, 2020 · Though the research confirms the many benefits of having more women in policing, female police representation in the United States has stagnated over the past 20 years at around 12 …

Mar 6, 2025 · While female officers today continue to transform law enforcement, their journey was paved by courageous women who defied societal norms and fought for their place in a historically …

Mar 22, 2024 · The big picture: Women make up approximately half of the US population but only about 12% of police officers. The data comes as no surprise because researchers have been talking about …

Jun 3, 2025 · Explore the facts behind the rising number of female police officers and their impact on law enforcement’s use of force. Learn about performance, accountability, and what research says about …