Abstract
<jats:p>The aim of this study was to examine the association between out-of-school suspension from primary school and early contact with police (by approximately 14 years of age). Using data from the New South Wales Child Development Study, this study determined the prevalence and pattern of suspension (by timing, total number, total days, and reason) and police contact (any, person of interest, victim, and/or witness) among 68,121 children who attended NSW public schools during 2012 to 2015 (Years 3 to 6). Associations between suspension and police contact were analysed using a demographically matched sample that compared all 3,291 suspended children with 6,582 like non-suspended peers. Suspended children had almost quadruple the odds of police contact relative to non-suspended children after controlling for other factors. Children with more suspensions, and suspensions for more serious reasons, had even greater likelihood of police contact, especially as a person of interest. Findings highlight a need for systemic education and interagency reform to enact effective alternatives to suspension.</jats:p>