NCJ Number
112022
Date Published
1987
Length
200 pages
Annotation
In addition to describing the organization, management, and operating procedures of COPE (Citizen-Oriented Police Enforcement), a Baltimore County police program to reduce community fear of crime and increase citizen satisfaction with police responses, this manual presents case studies to guide a jurisdiction in designing a COPE program.
Abstract
COPE is unique as a citizen-oriented, rather than a police-oriented approach in combatting both real and perceived crime and the fear that stems from both. Top priority is given to citizen perceptions, with an emphasis on community identification of problems and concerns. Using a refined problemsolving technique developed by Professor Herman Goldstein, COPE examines all facets of a community problem and does whatever is necessary to restore the perceived and desired quality of life to a neighborhood. A key strategy is to establish and maintain close and positive interactions with citizens by attending community meetings, canvassing neighborhoods door-to-door, working with citizens to improve crime prevention efforts, and using highly visible foot and motorcycle patrol. After describing the COPE organization, mission, and standard operating procedures, the manual discusses recruitment and training, fear surveys, and the monitoring and evaluation of COPE. Appended COPE survey forms, case studies, and supplementary materials. For related document, see NCJ 112021.