NCJ Number
140572
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 40 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1992) Pages: 47-48,51
Date Published
1992
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Relationships between police and schools can benefit law enforcement, education, and the community if they are thoughtfully planned and professionally administered.
Abstract
School police liaison programs provide a means of effective communication that can be of significant value to the police department. Structured access provides the opportunity for informal dialogue. In addition, the visible presence of a police officer is a major deterrent to school crime and can enhance the image of law enforcement not only to students and staff but also to the community at large. Furthermore, youth who have positive experiences with police officers are likely to experience more significant emotional conflict when they contemplate criminal activity. The contact can also improve police attitudes and communication skills with juveniles. Schools benefit through positive effects on discipline, greater preparedness for major incidents, improvements in physical and psychological safety, and improved relations with the police. Finally, the program will benefit the community through improved crime prevention, reduced truancy, potential reduction in gang activity, and the cooperative efforts to provide the structure necessary for the positive emotional development of young people.