NCJ Number
160862
Journal
Indian Journal of Criminology Volume: 23 Issue: 2 Dated: (July 1995) Pages: 77-80
Date Published
1995
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The Friends of Police (FOP) movement initiated by the author in the Ramnad district of Tamil Nadu in India is designed to promote the hitherto untapped public sentiments of goodwill toward the police.
Abstract
Designed to reduce the isolation of police from both their supporters and their opponents, FOP rapidly grew to include nearly 1,000 volunteers from all walks of life. Each member is a citizen of India who is not involved in any civil or criminal case. The minimum age is 18 and the maximum age is 70. Prospective members complete applications that include their name, age, occupation, and the capacity in which they wish to assist the police. Possible volunteer activities include crime prevention, anti-vice campaigns, victim assistance, information, night beats, patrolling, and traffic assistance. The goal is to enroll at least 10 percent of the population in the area served. The success of the movement in Tamil Nadu suggests that other jurisdictions would benefit from establishing a FOP organization. Lists of steps involved in establishing a program and application questions