Policing the Community - Powers, Procedures and Participation (From Police - Powers, Procedures and Proprieties, P 45-52, 1986, John Benyon and Colin Bourn, eds. - See NCJ-104641)

• NCJ Number: 104643
• Author(s): J Benyon
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: Pergamon Press, Inc
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The powers of British police to stop and frisk citizens and search their homes can undermine citizen cooperation with police unless citizens are involved in guiding the police toward search practices that are acceptable to citizens.

Abstract

In a number of London boroughs, a major citizen complaint has been the way in which police officers have exercised their statutory powers to stop and search. Such stops have a relatively minor impact on crime detection but can have a strong impact on citizens' willingness to cooperate with the police in solving crimes. The Police and Criminal Evidence Act includes a provision (section 106) for police agencies to solicit citizens' views and cooperation regarding policing practices. Police agencies should take advantage of this provision to ensure that their use of search powers does not alienate the community they are mandated to serve. Police do not have the right of self-government, as they must consult with and be held accountable to the community. All citizens, regardless of social position, have the right to be treated with dignity and courtesy as police exercise their power to protect the community. 13 notes.