Recall Your Introduction To Criminal Justice Class
Recall Your Introduction To Criminal Justice Class And The Subject Of
Recall your Introduction to Criminal Justice class and the subject of the policing history. You probably remember the three eras of policing (also you can find this topic on our textbook): the political, professional/reform, and community eras. Besides the periodization, you may also be familiar with the various types of policing that have emerged or been popularized in the United States, particularly since mid-1990s, such as zero tolerance policing, Homeland Security, evidence-based policing, police militarization, etc. Do you agree with that we live in the community policing era? Why or why not? Or, do you agree with that American policing already entered into a new era? If so, how do you call or name this new era, and why? Do your own research to support your idea. Share your thoughts and reasons by posting a conversation (at least 150 words in length excluding quotes).
Paper For Above instruction
The evolution of policing in the United States is characterized by distinct historical eras, each reflecting shifts in societal needs, political influences, and law enforcement strategies. Traditionally, policing is divided into three primary periods: the political era, the reform or professional era, and the community era. Currently, there is considerable debate among scholars and practitioners regarding whether American policing has transitioned fully into the community policing era or if a new era has emerged altogether.
The political era, spanning from the mid-19th to early 20th century, was marked by close ties between police departments and political entities. Officers often acted in accordance with political favoritism, which compromised the neutrality and professionalism of law enforcement. The reform or professional era, beginning in the early 20th century and lasting until the 1970s, sought to depoliticize policing and emphasize scientific methods, centralized administration, and formal patrol techniques. This period focused on crime fighting, crime reports, and technological advancements, often emphasizing a "law enforcement" approach rather than community engagement.
Since the 1980s and especially since the mid-1990s, policing strategies have undergone further transformation, adapting to new crime patterns and societal concerns. The rise of zero-tolerance policies, homeland security measures, evidence-based policing, and police militarization reflects this evolution. These strategies tend to emphasize aggressive crime control, increased surveillance, and readiness for terrorism threats, often at the expense of traditional community engagement.
The question of whether we are still in the community policing era or if a new era has replaced it depends on how one interprets recent practices and policies. Community policing generally emphasizes building partnerships with communities, decentralizing authority, and proactive problem-solving rooted in local context. Critics argue that contemporary practices, especially those involving militarized tactics and surveillance, suggest a shift away from community-oriented models toward a more centralized and control-based approach, often linked to national security concerns.
Some scholars suggest that we are entering a "Technocratic" or "Security-Focused" era, where technological advancements like surveillance cameras, data analytics, and predictive policing dominate, with less emphasis on community interaction. Others contend that the core principles of community policing still persist but are challenged by overarching security priorities. A new era could be characterized as the "Surveillance State" era, marked by pervasive monitoring and integration of technology into policing efforts aimed at ensuring security but potentially undermining civil liberties.
From my perspective, while there are elements of community engagement still present, the dominant trend appears to be moving toward a security-centric approach that emphasizes technology and control. Therefore, I believe society has entered a new era—perhaps best termed the "Security and Surveillance Era"—where the focus is on broader national security concerns, often at the cost of community-oriented policing. This shift reflects the evolving threats and societal anxieties in post-9/11 America, with law enforcement agencies operating within a framework that prioritizes safety, intelligence, and control over traditional community-centered practices.
In conclusion, the historical and contemporary shifts in policing strategies suggest that we have moved beyond solely the community policing era. Instead, we are experiencing a complex and hybrid period that combines elements of community engagement with advanced surveillance and security measures. Recognizing this hybrid state is essential for understanding the current landscape of American policing and guiding future reforms to balance security with civil liberties.
References
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Kappeler, V. E., & Gaines, L. K. (2015). Police Myths and Realities (3rd Edition). Waveland Press.
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Mawby, R. I., & Tatman, A. (2012). Policing Issues: Challenges and Controversies (2nd Edition). Willan Publishing.
Reiner, R. (2010). The Politics of the Police (4th Edition). Oxford University Press.
Simons, L. J. (2014). Community Policing: A Contemporary Perspective. Routledge.
Trojanowicz, R., & Bucqueroux, B. (1990). Community Policing: A Contemporary Perspective. Anderson Publishing Company.
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Prenzler, T., & Sarre, R. (2013). Policing and Crime Prevention. Routledge.