What does "selective enforcement" mean?

Selective enforcement refers to the practice of law enforcement in which certain traits or characteristics are taken into account when applying laws. This might involve considering factors such as race, socioeconomic status, or community standing, influencing who gets stopped, arrested, or prosecuted. It highlights an inconsistency in how laws are applied, as officers may prioritize enforcement actions based on their perceptions or biases about individuals or situations rather than strictly adhering to legal guidelines uniformly.

In contrast to other approaches, such as applying laws uniformly regardless of circumstances or interpreting all laws strictly, selective enforcement can lead to inequities and concerns about fairness in the justice system. It emphasizes the role of discretion in law enforcement and the potential for unequal treatment based on arbitrary criteria. Understanding this concept is critical in discussions about policing practices, civil rights, and the appropriate use of discretion in law enforcement actions.