NCJ Number
113603
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 61 Issue: 3 Dated: (July-September 1988) Pages: 234-244
Date Published
1988
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Police can prevent minor incidents of public disorder from escalating into major riots if they have strong local community relationships, clearly articulated police policies, and well-trained police officers.
Abstract
Public disorder can be quelled when police and the public work together to maintain the peace. Community leaders can be helpful in defusing public disorder, such as the now standard practice for British Police forces to work with and rely upon community leaders for help. In order for this policy to work, all police officers must understand and accept the role of community intervenor. Additionally, the police must make clear their policies to the public. They must let it be known that they will and can enforce the law even as they work constructively with community representatives. They must develop contingency plans and develop well-trained units that can work to defuse a situation and resolve it by force if necessary. The goal for both police and community members is sensible and considered law enforcement. Constructive relations with the communications media are important so that rumors can be scotched and inaccurate information corrected. The role of the police in working constructively with the community and in clearly articulating policies can best be realized by effective training and recruitment. Training of young officers should be thorough and continue for several years. Well-trained police acting in good faith with community leaders can accomplish a great deal in maintaining public order. 10 footnotes.