NCJ Number
140571
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 40 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1992) Pages: 31-34
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The police department and the elected members of the county council in Los Alamos (New Mexico) held a special forum led by a neutral facilitator to address misunderstandings resulting from their dissimilar views regarding the role of the police and how the department provided law enforcement services to the community.
Abstract
Varying perceptions existed regarding police discretion, goals and objectives, and proactive versus reactive policing. A police chief with academic training and experience in facilitating, police-community relations, and police organizational analysis served as facilitator for the session and developed the agenda with the county administrator. The session began with a discussion of the police agency's mission. Next, participants presented their perceptions and concerns, ranked their top five priorities, and learned about the department's strategic plan. The process was effective because participants were encouraged to be candid about their concerns. The facilitator presented an unbiased approach, kept the process moving, and clearly explained it to all. The process allowed a cathartic experience for some, made everyone aware of frustrating issues, opened communication, and achieved consensus on possible solutions and action plans.