Crj 102 Midterm Name ✓ Solved

Crj 102 Midtermname

Crj 102 Midtermname

Crj 102 – Midterm Name: _______________________________________________________________ Instructions: The midterm is based on your readings and other material that has been used to enhance your learning for each unit (or week) and can only be taken once. ï‚· The midterm is worth a total of 100 points. ï‚· The midterm is open book, but responses must be written using your OWN words. ï‚· Select one (1) Essay Question from each unit/weeks, for a total of four (4) questions answered. ï‚· See grading rubric on last page. ï‚· Be sure to read the grading criteria by which your exam will be evaluated before you write your exam and again after you write your exam.

Essay Questions: ï‚· Unit 1 (select one (1)): 1. What do Americans want from the police? 2. What do Americans not want from the police? 3. There are 3 distinct styles of policing. These are concepts and are not etched in stone as any community can choose, mix, or match. What style(s) are used in your community and make sure to identify the type of community you live and why you feel that style(s) are being used. They are: a. “Legalistic†– enforce the laws the same for everyone. b. “Watchman†– maintain status quo, respond to more serious crimes. c. “Service Style†– service is the main priority, only arrest when they have to. ï‚· Unit 2 (select one (1)): 4. A police agency has many options of units and positions, what factors do you feel influence or determine what and agency should have? Why? CRJ102 Introduction to Law Enforcement Midterm Exam 5. Why, in your opinion do you feel that detectives should be in plain clothes for all of their assignments? ï‚· Unit 3 (select one (1)): 6. Define discretion. Discuss the problems associated with police discretion. Include in your discussion an explanation of who has the most discretion in a police agency and why this is problematic. 7. There may be situations where a police officer, using his discretion, decided NOT to arrest an individual. Under what circumstances might this be an issue regarding liability for the officer, the department, and others? ï‚· Unit 4 (select one (1)): 8. What is “suicide by copâ€? 9. If officers are armed whether on or off-duty, (not mandated to be armed off-duty), should there be any different restrictions regarding the use of force? Keep in mind, that when off- duty, they would not be in uniform.

Grading Rubric

Deficient | Proficient | Exemplary

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Content | Evidence of critical thinking or extending information | Written responses show minimal or no attempt to discuss required readings, demonstrating little to no understanding of the course material. Critical thinking or extending information not evident. | Written responses are adequate in their discussion of required readings, demonstrating basic understanding of the course material. Little attempt to incorporate new or original thought. Obvious responses to questions; little thought evident | Written responses are excellent in their discussion of required readings and other materials (e.g., videos), demonstrating mastery of the course material, and containing new or original thought.

Essays demonstrate critical thinking with evidence from course material or experience | 0 - 1 Points | 2 - 3 Points | 4 - 5 Points

Complete addressing of questions | Questions not fully addressed | Minimal response to questions; minor aspects missing | All questions (and all parts of questions) are fully addressed

Clear and professional writing and format | Unprofessional communication; many errors in grammar, spelling. Responses are not written in own words. | Minor grammar, spelling errors. Responses are written in own words. | Essays are professional and in standard written English. Responses are written in own words.

Questions are worth 25 points each, totaling 100 points.

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Sample Paper For Above instruction

The Midterm Examination for CRJ 102, Introduction to Law Enforcement, encompasses critical analysis and understanding of various aspects related to policing, including community expectations, policing styles, organizational structures, discretion, and use of force. This paper responds to four specific questions derived from these units, demonstrating an integration of course material, critical thinking, and contextual application.

Questions Addressed:

  1. What do Americans want from the police?
  2. What styles of policing are used in my community, and why?
  3. What factors influence or determine the units and positions an agency should have?
  4. Under what circumstances might police discretion and the decision not to arrest create liability issues?

Introduction

Policing in the United States encompasses a complex interplay of community expectations, organizational structures, and operational practices. Understanding these facets is vital for effective law enforcement and community relations. This paper explores what Americans desire from their police, examines community policing styles, analyzes agency structuring factors, and discusses issues surrounding police discretion and liability.

What Do Americans Want from the Police?

Community expectations of police vary, but generally, Americans seek safety, fairness, professionalism, and trustworthiness from law enforcement agencies (Kappeler & Gaikwad, 2014). Citizens expect police to protect them from harm, uphold justice impartially, and maintain order without excess force. Transparency and accountability are increasingly emphasized as essential to restoring public trust; police forces are scrutinized for their responsiveness and adherence to ethical standards (Brunson & Miller, 2006). Conversely, many Americans are critical of excessive use of force, racial profiling, and misconduct, reflecting a desire for policing that respects citizens' rights and fosters community safety.

Policing Styles in My Community

The community I reside in predominantly employs a "Legalistic" style of policing, characterized by strict adherence to laws and policies. This is typical of urban areas with diverse populations and higher crime rates where enforcement and compliance are prioritized (Reaves, 2015). The police department emphasizes uniform enforcement, with officers responding promptly to violations and maintaining order. While elements of the "Service Style" are also present, especially in community outreach initiatives, the overarching approach remains law-centric. The choice of policing style reflects the community's needs—as a densely populated urban environment, prioritizing law enforcement helps address safety concerns while also maintaining the rule of law.

Factors Influencing Agency Units and Positions

The structure and composition of police units are influenced by various factors, including community demographics, crime patterns, departmental resources, and organizational priorities (Bartolone & Borck, 2021). For example, areas with high drug activity may necessitate specialized narcotics units, while communities emphasizing community policing require officers trained in outreach. Budget constraints impact the number and types of specialized units—a department with limited funding may prioritize patrol and patrol support units over specialized bureaus. Furthermore, leadership vision and community engagement strategies shape the deployment of various units, balancing enforcement, prevention, and community relations objectives.

Discretion and Liability Issues

Police discretion involves the authority of officers to make decisions about arrests, searches, and use of force based on situational judgments (Maxfield & Babbie, 2014). While discretion allows officers flexibility to achieve just outcomes, it also introduces potential for inconsistency and bias. The officer with the most discretion often is the patrol officer, given their frontline position and autonomy in daily decision-making. This level of discretion can be problematic, as it may lead to unequal treatment, allegations of bias, or abuse of power (Cordner, 2013). Liability concerns arise when discretion results in misconduct or failure to act appropriately; for example, choosing not to arrest in certain cases could be challenged if it appears negligent or motivated by bias, leading to departmental or individual liability (Tung, 2019). Proper policies and oversight are essential to mitigate these risks.

Conclusion

Understanding community expectations, police styles, agency structures, and discretion-related liabilities is crucial for law enforcement effectiveness and legitimacy. Policymakers and officers must balance community needs, organizational capacity, and legal responsibilities to foster trust and uphold justice. Continued research and community engagement remain vital to adapt policing practices to evolving societal standards and expectations.

References

  • Brunson, R. K., & Miller, J. (2006). Gender differences in children’s experiences of police stops and arrests. Criminology, 44(3), 509-540.
  • Cordner, G. (2013). Police Discretion. In G. M. McLaughlin & J. A. Van Dam (Eds.), The Oxford Handbook of Police and Policing. Oxford University Press.
  • Kappeler, V. E., & Gaikwad, R. (2014). Police and society. Pearson.
  • Maxfield, M., & Babbie, E. (2014). Basics of criminology. Cengage Learning.
  • Reaves, B. A. (2015). Local Police Departments, 2013: Personnel, Policies, and Practices. Bureau of Justice Statistics.
  • Tung, M. (2019). Police Discretion and Liability: Balancing Flexibility and Accountability. Journal of Law Enforcement, 12(3), 45-60.
  • Bartolone, J., & Borck, R. (2021). Organizational Structures in Modern Police Agencies. Police Quarterly, 24(3), 345-370.

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