NCJ Number
125032
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 6 Issue: 2 Dated: (May 1990) Pages: 60-69
Date Published
1990
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article, based on the observations of a professor of criminal justice who completed an eight-month stint as a police practitioner, discusses several areas of law enforcement administration including methods and practices, personnel issues, discipline and corruption, and civil liability.
Abstract
In the 1990s, the services of referral agencies and professional counselors, particularly in rural jurisdiction, will need to be expanded. Psychological skills and a heightened sensitivity to community relations will remain essential. The practice of community policing will continue into the next decade, while other areas impacting police efficiency involve the use of computer technology and the status of police physical plants. Police managers will need to view personal issues in a more anticipatory vein by understanding their subordinates and their motivations. Another related issue is the problem of the legitimate discipline of police officers in the face of employee associations and unions. Corruption is an additional problem for managers. However, the most overriding concern of law enforcement administrators may be the civil liability of their officers; the decisions of the officer may become more critical, as well as the need for certification of basic police equipment. Policymakers will need to employ nontraditional methods and philosophies in addressing these issues. 10 references. (Author abstract modified)