NCJ Number
91150
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 52 Issue: 8 Dated: (August 1983) Pages: 1-7
Date Published
1983
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The use of foot and cycle patrol and an emphasis on increased interaction between police and citizens has resulted in a decline in the property crime rate in the Derby East subdivision (England).
Abstract
The Derby East subdivision, a multiracial community, has had a property crime rate above the national average. In an effort to counter this pattern, the subdivision was divided into four areas, with each area placed under the command of an inspector with 3 uniformed sergeants and a number of uniformed constables varying from 19 in one area to 30 in another. Detectives were allocated to each area in sergeant and constable rank. All officers were selected on proven ability, attitude, and capacity to relate well to the public. Training consisted of a 1-week community relations course supplemented by a day of briefing on the aims and aspirations of the scheme. The three aspects of the program are consultation, cooperation, and credibility. Consultation consists of formal liaison meetings arranged by the area inspector bimonthly in which the police consult with representatives of county and city councils, the Commission of Racial Equality, education and social service bodies, and other community bodies. In the area of cooperation, the police interact informally with citizens in the contexts of schools, youth organizations, churches, and places of public entertainment and recreation. Credibility has been established by a three percent decrease in crime for the first 6 months of the experimental scheme. Police morale and citizen confidence in police has improved as well.