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a. The English Heritage
Modern policing traces back to England with early forms like constables and night watchmen. The Bow Street Runners (mid-18th century) were among the first organized detective forces. The Metropolitan Police Act of 1829 established the London Metropolitan Police, introducing principles that emphasized crime prevention, public approval, and ethical conduct. -
b. Law Enforcement in Colonial America
Colonial America’s law enforcement was based on the English model but adapted locally. Constables and night watchmen were common, with communities relying on informal controls and volunteer officers. In the Southern colonies, slave patrols were used to control enslaved populations and prevent revolts. -
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d. The “Political Era” in American Policing
During the “Political Era,” police forces were closely tied to local politicians, leading to patronage and corruption. Officers were often appointed based on political connections. Police played roles beyond law enforcement, including social services and maintaining political order, with inconsistent quality and rampant corruption. -
c. The First Modern American Police
The first modern American police force was established in Boston in 1838, followed by New York City in 1845. Influenced by the London Metropolitan Police, these early forces were full-time, paid, and focused on maintaining public order amid urbanization and social unrest. They were marked by political influence and a lack of standardized practices. -
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e. The Professional Era, 1900–1960
The “Professional Era” aimed to reform and professionalize policing, emphasizing centralized administration, specialized units, and crime control. Leaders like August Vollmer promoted training, discipline, and technological advancements. This period sought to eliminate political influence and corruption, stressing impartial law enforcement. -
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f. The Police Crises of the 1960s
The 1960s saw social upheaval and civil rights movements, with police facing scrutiny for handling protests and racial tensions. Incidents of police brutality led to widespread distrust and civil unrest, exemplified by events like the Watts Riots and the riots following Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. These crises led to calls for police reform and greater accountability. -
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g. New Developments in Policing, 1970–Present
From the 1970s, policing saw shifts towards community policing, emphasizing problem-solving and engagement. Data-driven approaches like CompStat focused on crime analysis and accountability. Technological advances, such as computer-aided dispatch and body cameras, transformed methods, with increased emphasis on addressing corruption and improving training. -
h. The National Police Crisis, 2014–Present
Since 2014, the U.S. has faced a national police crisis due to high-profile incidents of police violence against unarmed Black individuals. These events sparked protests and movements like Black Lives Matter, calling for reform and accountability. Debates over police practices, funding, and systemic racism continue, with ongoing efforts to implement reforms such as improved training, transparency, and community policing. -
i. Future Era: A Focus on Advanced Technology and Community
The future of policing will focus on advanced technology and community partnerships. Artificial intelligence will play significant roles in crime prevention and resource allocation, allowing for more proactive policing. Emphasis on community policing will grow, fostering stronger relationships between police and communities. Training in de-escalation, cultural competence, and mental health awareness will become standard, to create a more effective policing system that better serves all citizens.