Police departments are continuing to have trouble recruiting and retaining women. But experts and observers differ on the reasons.
Feminist activists claim the greatest obstacle is the attitude and behavior of male colleagues.
But officials of the Fraternal Order of Police point out that few women want to go into law enforcement, particularly with more attractive opportunities available elsewhere, particularly with the strong economy. That is half a percentage point higher than in 1999. In 1990, women made up 9 percent of police ranks. About 5.1 percent of today's female officers hold higher ranks.