NCJ Number
95612
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 51 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1984) Pages: 24-25,28-49,52-56
Editor(s)
N Darwick,
C E Higginbotham
Date Published
1984
Length
27 pages
Annotation
The need for police agencies to define and articulate the beliefs that guide their institution is emphasized, and the set of values that guides the operations of the Houston Police Department is examined.
Abstract
These values set forth the philosophy of policing in Houston and the commitment made by the department to high standards of policing. These values also reflect citizens' expectations, which are ultimately manifested in the department's administrative policies and procedures. For each new procedure or rule issued by the department, a policy statement is included, setting forth the values inherent in the development of that procedure. The values are as follows. The Houston Police Department: (1) will involve the community in all policing activities which directly impact the quality of community life; (2) believes that while crime prevention is its primary goal, it should vigorously pursue those who commit serious crimes; (3) believes that policing strategies used must preserve and advance democratic values; (4) believes that it must structure service delivery in a way that will reinforce the strengths of the city's neighborhoods; (5) believes that the public should have input into the development of policies which directly impact the quality of neighborhood life; (6) is committed to managing its resources in a careful and effective manner; (7) will seek the job satisfaction and effectiveness; (8) will maintain the highest levels of integrity and professionalism; and (9) will seek to provide stability, continuity, and consistency in all of its operations.