Community Policing and Legitimacy in Policing

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Questions and Answers

What perspective did George Kelling express regarding policing strategies at the 2010 meeting?

Departments should focus solely on community engagement.

Many departments are moving away from community policing, which is ineffective. (correct)

Community policing is an outdated concept.

A return to responding to calls for service is a positive change.

How can the legitimacy of a police department be evaluated according to the content?

Through surveys measuring public opinion on police actions. (correct)

By assessing the effectiveness of crime reduction strategies.

By comparing budgets across different departments.

Through the number of community events held by the department.

What does the concept of legitimacy in policing primarily rely on?

The willingness of community members to cooperate with law enforcement. (correct)

The implementation of innovative policing technologies.

The number of laws enacted to govern police conduct.

The size and resources of a police department.

What historical viewpoint did Sir Robert Peel advocate regarding policing?

Community trust is essential for effective policing. Signup and view all the answers

What was one possible outcome of police departments prioritizing responses to calls for service?

A revival of ineffective policing strategies from previous decades. Signup and view all the answers

What impact does perceived legitimacy have on public support for police actions?

It makes the public more supportive and trusting towards the police. Signup and view all the answers

Which component is NOT part of the Justice Department's definition of community policing?

Proactive measures to eliminate police misconduct. Signup and view all the answers

How do community policing initiatives typically succeed?

Through systematic identification and solutions to community problems. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about community policing?

It is often seen as a temporary program rather than a philosophy. Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase describes the relationship between legitimacy in policing and community policing?

Legitimacy is seen as an evolved iteration of community policing. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines community policing?

A philosophy promoting partnerships and problem-solving for safety. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of procedural justice in law enforcement?

To enhance the legitimacy and fairness of police processes. Signup and view all the answers

What effect does community-police cooperation have on public safety issues?

It helps in effectively addressing issues like crime and disorder. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for police actions to be recognized as fair and appropriate by the public?

To maintain public trust and legitimacy. Signup and view all the answers

What should a police chief do when their department's necessary actions may not be perceived as fair?

Seek opportunities to explain the circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

How did Superintendent Garry McCarthy suggest officers should handle police stops?

First secure the situation, then explain the stop. Signup and view all the answers

What outcome can be achieved by police officers communicating respect during enforcement encounters?

Enhanced community-police relations and legitimacy. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the key issues highlighted by the committee report regarding the arrest of Professor Gates?

Public review of questions of police legitimacy. Signup and view all the answers

What relationship can be built by officers following a protocol during enforcement encounters?

A relationship built on mutual respect and cooperation. Signup and view all the answers

How can simple protocols during stops impact the community's view of the police?

They can improve overall police legitimacy in the community. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of police actions being perceived as unfair?

Deterioration of trust and cooperation from the public. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

### Community Policing vs. Legitimacy in Policing

In 2010, many police departments were shifting away from community policing as an economic downturn forced them to prioritize responding to calls for service.
This shift was viewed by some, including Rutgers Professor George Kelling, as a return to outdated and ineffective policing strategies from the 1950s and 1960s.
Police legitimacy is not a program, initiative, or set of policies; it's a broader concept that applies to all police departments.
Police legitimacy is determined by the public's perception of their fairness, impartiality, and trustworthiness. This perception can be measured through public surveys.
Community policing is viewed as a police initiative, while police legitimacy is a criterion by which police departments are judged by the communities they serve.
Community policing emphasizes partnerships with the community, problem-solving, and organizational transformation to support these aims.
Community policing as a philosophy has been widely accepted in thousands of police agencies, but it is not always considered a priority, especially if budgets are cut or funding is scarce.
Legitimacy is closely tied to the public's acceptance of police actions, even those that may be necessary but perceived as unfair or inappropriate.
Efforts to build legitimacy in policing share similarities with community policing initiatives, but they are not interchangeable.
Balancing legitimacy and tactical and safety considerations is crucial for police departments.
Officers are encouraged to explain their actions and build trust during encounters with the public.
Building trust through simple actions like explaining policies, soliciting input, and showing respect can contribute to police legitimacy.
Outside reviews and public discussions about incidents that impact police legitimacy are crucial for ensuring public accountability and restoring trust.

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Description

This quiz explores the concepts of community policing and police legitimacy, highlighting the historical shifts in policing strategies, especially during economic downturns. Understand the importance of public perception in determining the legitimacy of police departments and how community partnerships play a crucial role in modern policing practices.