The Evolution of Community Policing, Case Study Example

Abstract

The term “community policing” cannot be easily contained in a concept because it can refer to everything from citizen-managed neighborhood watch programs to organized approaches developed and carried out by police officers and administrators. This paper will trace the historical evolution of community policing in the U.S., from the earliest “town watch” groups of the colonial era to contemporary policing models in the nation’s largest cities. Comparisons between community policing models in the U.S. and in other nations will be further used to highlight the various ways that community policing has been envisioned and applied. These historical and contemporary examinations of the far-ranging issues applicable to the term “community policing” will help to clarify both the textbook definition and the real-world applicability of this approach to preventing and solving crime.

Introduction

According to Jack R. Greene (2000) Community policing or different aspects of it, has emerged into the national mantra of American policing. Further he advances that research has shown where the language related to this concept; its symbolism, and programs connected to it have all evolved from urban, suburban, and even rural police departments’ approaches of linking resources with concerned citizens in their respective neighborhoods to ensure a safe environment. More importantly, within the past 15 years or at least one generation of American policing history problem-oriented policing targeting community collaboration has been the theme of effective policing programes. Advocates have emphasized the value of community policing in the American society as a powerful public safety force.

However, in tracing the historical evolution of community policing in the U.S., from the earliest “town watch” groups of the colonial era to contemporary policing models in the nation’s largest cities there is not clarity as to how these complex themes have impacted American policing. As such, during this discussion the author will deliberately trace how the emergence of these themes has actually shaped the history of community policing in America. For example, analysts have contended that the complexity of community policing programs in themselves programs especially those engaging the problem-oriented theme often initiated systematic scientific investigation needed to explore serious dysfunctions occurring within the targeted community.

Importantly, they further advance that the concepts community and problem-oriented policing are inseparable “moving targets.” Consequently, in discussing the history of community policing is certainly an examination into how the phenomenon has been modified to function in turbulent environments and law enforcement impact in changes occurring in the community with support of its citizens.

References

Greene, J. (2000). Community Policing in America: Changing the Nature, Structure, and Function of the Police. Criminal Justice. 3, 299-340

References

Brogden, M., & Nijhar, P. (2005). Community policing: National and international models and approaches. Portland, OR: Willan.

Miller, L. S., Hess, K. M., & Miller, L. S. (2005). Community policing: Partnerships for problem solving. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Thomson Learning.

Palmiotto, M. J. (2011). Community Policing: A Police-Citizen Partnership. Hoboken, NJ: Taylor & Francis.