Define bias-based policing as it pertains to law enforcement.

Bias-based policing is defined as law enforcement actions that are influenced by a person's race, ethnicity, or other demographic characteristics rather than their actual behavior or evidence of wrongdoing. This definition reflects the fundamental issue of discrimination within policing practices, where officers may make decisions based on stereotypes or preconceived notions about certain groups rather than factual indicators of criminal activity.

This type of policing is problematic because it undermines the principle of equal treatment under the law, leading to mistrust between law enforcement agencies and communities, especially among those disproportionately affected by such practices. When policing is rooted in biases, it can result in unfair targeting, increased tensions, and further criminalization of certain communities without just cause.

The other options describe different concepts related to law enforcement but do not encompass the specific definition of bias-based policing. Profiling based on previous criminal records or targeting areas because of high crime rates does not inherently involve making assumptions based on demographic characteristics alone. Similarly, the use of excessive force is a separate issue that can be influenced by bias but is not synonymous with bias-based policing itself.