NCJ Number
118749
Date Published
1988
Length
90 pages
Annotation
In exploring the future role of local California police departments in the enforcement of environmental protection laws, this study examines possible futures, proposes desired policies, and presents an implementation procedure.
Abstract
The study found that despite government efforts to manage environmental protection needs, environmental quality indicators have continued to decline at the expense of public safety. Although local police environmental enforcement activities have historically been limited, mounting contamination threats will produce calls for police environmental protection efforts. Futures research methodologies are used to evaluate changes affecting the role of local police in the enforcement of environmental law during the next decade. Current trends and possible future events are forecast to determine their future impact on police-environmental protection interactions. This information is used to develop three scenarios depicting three distinct law-enforcement futures for the next decade. One of the futures is selected as both desirable and attainable. This future presumes that local police will implement policies enabling their involvement in the environmental protection process. To reach the desired future, a strategic plan is developed. Techniques are used during the strategic planning process that identify police strengths and weaknesses, mission statements, and viable policy alternatives. Policies at the core of the plan include developing an environmental enforcement program, creating education programs, streamlining police services, enacting alternative funding programs, and increasing allied agency cooperation. A transition management plan for implementing the strategy is also composed. 5 figures, 6 charts, appended supplemental information, 7 references.