NCJ Number
87738
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 56 Issue: 1 Dated: (January-March 1983) Pages: 42-52
Date Published
1983
Length
12 pages
Annotation
In a democratic society, the army should only be called in to assist the police when insurrection and terrorism have become organized in the extensive use of violence. Any measures adopted should have a minimal effect on democratic principles while maximally countering threats to public order.
Abstract
Upholding the law and public order is, as long as the government has strong public support and short of armed insurrection, a police matter. If for a time the intensity and scale of violence should reach a high pitch, the police may have to forsake traditional methods and undertake more forceful methods for dealing with violent disorder. When it is clear the police are unable to maintain order under a massive and organized insurrection, then it is appropriate that the army be called in to assist the civil powers in establishing order. At this point, police powers for the military should be invoked, including the power of search, traffic control, the checking of documents, and the enforcement of border control regulations. The army, as has been the case in Northern Ireland, should employ a minimal use of force and have respect for the legal process. As quickly as possible, the police should be restored to their peacekeeping functions so social control functions may return to normal. The development of police resources to deal with fringe terrorist activities can enable the police to assume duties previously done by armed personnel. Any legal changes designed to facilitate cooperation between the police and military in times of extreme disorder should facilitate the detection and prosecution of terrorists and the disorderly without instituting sweeping powers that dramatically change the rights accorded citizens. Thirty-one references are listed.