NCJ Number
212947
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 29 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2005 Pages: 32-34,38,39
Date Published
December 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the responsibilities of airport police officers based on interviews with officers serving airports in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, and New Jersey.
Abstract
Policing an airport differs from working at a municipal or county agency in a number of ways. One major difference is that officers are linked to a particular type of business. Security responsibilities, therefore, not only require that the patrons and property of the business be effectively protected, but also that security procedures do not unnecessarily impede the business' efficient operation. In some airports, notably in New York City and New Jersey, passengers are often diplomats and heads of state who require special types of protection that includes cooperation with Federal officials. In addition to basic law enforcement training, airport police require specialized training in dealing with the specific tasks and security needs associated with particular airports. At airports that serve a high percentage of international travelers, officers must be trained in communicating and interacting with people of different languages and cultures. Also, the terrorist threat requires specialized training in ways to detect and counter various terrorist tactics for moving their personnel and weapons into and through airports.