Examine At Least 2 Of The Eras Of Policing And Discuss

Examine at least (2) of the eras of policing and discuss their main strengths and weaknesses

In this course, we have been learning about the different eras of policing, from the inception of the first police force in 1829 to the current era of policing today. The history of policing is marked by distinct eras, each characterized by specific approaches, strengths, and weaknesses that have influenced the development of law enforcement in the United States.

Introduction

The evolution of policing in America reflects broader societal changes and shifting priorities over time. Understanding these eras provides insight into current challenges and future directions. This paper examines two significant eras of policing: the Political Era and the Professional Era, analyzing their respective strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, it explores contemporary issues impacting law enforcement and offers insights into the future of policing, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation and reform.

The Political Era (1840s-1930s)

The Political Era of policing, spanning approximately from the 1840s to the 1930s, was defined by close ties between police departments and local political figures. During this period, police organizations were often involved in political favoritism, with officers sometimes acting as political agents rather than impartial law enforcers.

Strengths

  • Community Integration: Police officers in this era were deeply embedded within their communities, often living among citizens they served. This proximity fostered relationships and a sense of trust at a local level.
  • Flexibility and Discretion: Officers exercised significant discretion, allowing them to adapt their responses to local needs and customs.

Weaknesses

  • Corruption and Political Manipulation: The close ties to politics often led to corruption, with officers serving political interests rather than justice. This eroded public trust and compromised law enforcement integrity.
  • Lack of Professionalism: Training and standards were inconsistent, resulting in variability in officer conduct and effectiveness.
  • Inconsistent Law Enforcement: The politicized nature of policing led to disparities in law enforcement, often influenced by local political agendas rather than law and order.

The Professional Era (1930s-1970s)

The Professional Era emerged as a response to widespread corruption and inefficiency in the Political Era, emphasizing scientific management, increased training, and an emphasis on crime control.

Strengths

  • Standardization and Reform: Introduction of formal training, standardized procedures, and merit-based promotions increased professionalism within police agencies.
  • Focus on Crime Control: Strategies such as crime prevention units, patrol services, and criminal investigations improved the capacity to address criminal activity systematically.
  • Accountability: The establishment of clear policies and procedures promoted accountability and transparency.

Weaknesses

  • Decreased Community Engagement: The focus on crime suppression sometimes led to an impersonal police culture, distancing officers from the community they serve.
  • Over-reliance on Technology and Enforcement Tactics: Increased use of technology and enforcement-based strategies occasionally resulted in violations of civil rights and excessive use of force.
  • Neglect of Social Factors: Crime prevention efforts often overlooked underlying social issues such as poverty, inequality, and lack of social services.

Contemporary Issues Facing Law Enforcement

Today, law enforcement faces complex issues that challenge their ability to maintain social order and foster community trust. Among these, two stand out as significant: police-community relations and the use of excessive force.

Police-Community Relations

The distrust between law enforcement and minority communities has been heightened by incidents of perceived racial bias and excessive force, contributing to protests, riots, and social unrest. This divide hampers effective policing and community cooperation, essential for crime prevention and social stability. The impact includes reduced citizen cooperation, increased tension, and a weakening of the social fabric.

Use of Excessive Force

The issue of excessive force, especially in high-profile incidents, has garnered national attention, fueling calls for reform. This problem affects public perceptions of legitimacy and fairness, potentially leading to increased hostility towards police and reluctance among communities to cooperate. Such issues threaten the social order by undermining the authority and ethical standards of law enforcement agencies.

The Future of Law Enforcement

Looking ahead, law enforcement is likely to evolve into a more community-oriented and technologically integrated entity within the next five years. Emphasis will be placed on building trust, increasing transparency, and utilizing innovative tools to enhance safety and service delivery.

Where Law Enforcement is Headed

Research suggests that policing will increasingly adopt community policing models, emphasizing collaboration with citizens to address social issues proactively. Additionally, technological advancements such as body-worn cameras, data analytics, and predictive policing will become central to operations, aiming to improve accountability and efficiency.

Main Challenges

  • Balancing Technology and Privacy: Ensuring data security and respecting civil liberties amid increased surveillance.
  • Addressing Systemic Bias: Implementing reforms to eliminate racial and social disparities in policing practices.
  • Resource Allocation: Adequately funding programs that support mental health, social services, and crime prevention.
  • Building Community Trust: Restoring legitimacy through transparency, accountability, and community engagement initiatives.

The Role of the Public in Future Policing

The relationship between law enforcement and the community must evolve into a partnership based on mutual trust, respect, and collaboration. In the near future, citizens will play a crucial role by actively participating in community policing efforts, providing feedback on policing practices, and engaging in initiatives that promote social cohesion. Education and transparent communication will be vital in fostering mutual understanding and shared goals for public safety.

Conclusion

The history of policing reflects a continual adaptation to societal needs and challenges. While each era brought its strengths, weaknesses persisted, influencing the current landscape. Today, issues like police misconduct and community distrust threaten social order but also present opportunities for reform. The future of policing hinges on integrating technological advancements with community-oriented strategies, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and public participation. Building partnerships with communities will be essential in overcoming future challenges and creating a justice system that is fair, effective, and reflective of societal values.

References

  • Bittner, E. (1970). The Functions of the Police in Modern Society. Pages from manual of Police Administration, 1-10.
  • Kappeler, V. E., & Gaines, L. K. (2015). Community Policing: A Contemporary Perspective. Routledge.
  • Skolnick, J. H., & Bayley, D. H. (2014). POLICE Investigations: Theory and Practice. Waveland Press.
  • Walker, S., & Katz, C. M. (2017). The Police in America. McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Goldstein, H. (1977). Policing a Free Society. Ballinger Publishing Company.
  • Mitchell, N. (2016). Community Oriented Policing: Principles and Practice. Journal of Policing & Practice, 2(3), 145-158.
  • Lum, C., et al. (2019). The Impact of Body-Worn Cameras on Police-Community Relations: A Systematic Review. Journal of Experimental Criminology, 15, 1-24.
  • Miller, J. M., & Kling, R. (2018). Crime Prevention and Community Policing. Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice, 34(2), 177–192.
  • Rothwell, D. W. (2018). Facing Up to Race and the Police. Harvard Kennedy School Journal of Public Safety, 17(4), 8–12.
  • Tyler, T. R. (2004). Enhancing Police Legitimacy. The Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, 593(1), 84-99.

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