Improving Citizen Perceptions of the Police: "Back to the Basics" with a Community Policing Strategy

• NCJ Number: 136408
• Journal: Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Dated: (1992) Pages: 25-40
• Author(s): K Peak; R V Bradshaw; R W Glensor
• Date Published: 1992
• Length: 16 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Data from five scientific community surveys were analyzed to determine whether the community policing strategy introduced in 1987 altered the public's negative perception of the Reno (Nevada) Police Department (RPD).

Abstract

The data revealed significant improvements in the RPD image and in the community perception of its overall performance, handling of offenders, and feeling of concern projected by the street officers along with an increased sense of the city being a safe place to live following the implementation of community policing. Another positive indicator is the passage of a tax initiative in May 1988 which provided funds to hire 88 additional patrol officers. Additionally, there have been favorable news accounts of community policing accomplishments. Ongoing community surveys and interaction with community groups will continue to guide the efforts of the RPD. 8 tables and 54 references (Author abstract modified)