NCJ Number
105049
Journal
Canadian Police College Journal Volume: 10 Issue: 4 Dated: (1986) Pages: 245-266
Date Published
1986
Length
22 pages
Annotation
In 1984, the Swedish Government enacted police reforms designed to result in a more flexible organization and an extended decentralization of operational, administrative, and financial responsibilities.
Abstract
The Police Act specifies the purpose of policing, the objectives of the police system, and police cooperation with authorities and organizations. It delineates the organizational system for local, regional, and central police. It also covers principles for general action, the duty to report offenses, and a number of police powers and limitations relating to use of force, custody, searches, and warrants. Further details of reformed police organization and management are contained in the Police Ordinance, and a number of governmental decrees provide guidelines for implementing reforms. Finally, a 1984 Government decree specifies policing activities corresponding to the objectives put forth in the Police Act. These delineate police responsibilities in such areas as crime prevention, patrol and supervision, traffic supervision, crime detection and investigation, service functions, and training. While critics contend that the reforms now being launched are not as innovative or significant as has been claimed, they are an attempt to deal with difficulties in planning, organization, and finances inherent in the former system. 12 references.