NCJ Number
195128
Journal
Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Management Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Dated: 2002 Pages: 14-31
Date Published
2002
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This document examines the range of reform initiatives from the perspective of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and within the context of community policing in the Province of Alberta, Canada.
Abstract
RCMP reform has tried to balance between political agendas that cast policing as a generic public service agency and recognize a broader set of responsibilities specific to policing. The broad mandate encompassing Federal, provincial, and municipal policing responsibilities and an organizational belief that little was required in terms of structural change hindered reform. The RCMP rooted its reform in community policing and models of corporate management. Community based policing was implemented not because of a newfound commitment to citizen involvement but because of a commitment to reduce the size of government and emulate the private sector. Implementation of community policing and reform initiatives had been narrowly focused and limited organization reform. There was little internal understanding or support of the basic philosophical principles that characterize community policing. Decentralization and downloading increased the authority of detachment commanders and also limited the range of opportunities and varied policing strategies available to them. The community had to negotiate for additional services, find the funds to offset the cost, or relieve staffing pressures through greater volunteerism. The question was whether objectives of cost efficiency and downsizing undermined the ability of a police service to remain equitable and effective. The RCMP has streamlined its management structure and downloaded responsibility to the community. The restructuring of RCMP management was achieved by way of implementing an organization model based upon regionalization. While these reform initiatives reflect neo-liberal objectives of fiscal austerity, they have also laid the foundation for a more accountable and equitable police role in the partnership that community policing produces. 8 notes, 48 references