NCJ Number
136493
Date Published
1991
Length
18 pages
Annotation
A review of four Canadian evaluation studies considers the effectiveness of community policing.
Abstract
Under community policing, police adopt a strategy of systematic consultation with the community, and the attitudes and behaviors of the police are proactive and interactive. The police, together with other major public and private agencies, help to improve the quality of life in a community through community crime prevention programs. Front-line police officers are generalists and have a high level of responsibility and autonomy. Further, the police are accountable to the community in setting priorities and delivering services. Evaluation studies reviewed show that citizens under community policing are much less likely than other citizens to be victims of violence and theft. Also, feelings of insecurity and fear diminish significantly among citizens served by community policing. Public satisfaction with police work increases under community policing and remains high. The official rates of crime, however, have not changed under the impact of community policing. Given this fact, it remains to be seen whether or not citizens will remain satisfied and feel secure with community policing. 34 references