This study examined the quality of treatment provided to people in custody in 60 Dutch police organizations and the organizational characteristics affecting the quality of treatment. None of the police organizations were found to follow all of the governmental laws and regulations concerning the treatment of people in police custody. In addition, although most of the organizations fulfilled the bulk of the criteria for good treatment supported by public opinion, some organizations provided poor treatment to detained persons. The chances of good treatment were found to be highest in police organizations with a high degree of specialization and standardization.
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