NCJ Number
174916
Date Published
1998
Length
64 pages
Annotation
This research report focuses on issues associated with the implementation of community/police partnerships in the Queensland Police Service (Australia) and includes some examination of problem-oriented policing, in recognition of the links between the two approaches.
Abstract
The report, which is based on surveys and interviews of police and local councillors in Brisbane, intends to assist in the development of improved policing methods in Queensland by first documenting the progress that the Queensland Police Service (QPS) has made in implementing community policing and aspects of problem-oriented policing in Metro North and Metro South Regions of Brisbane. It also identifies issues that will require consideration if further gains are to be achieved. In the course of these efforts, the report documents a methodology that may be of more general use in monitoring the implementation of new policing strategies within the QPS. A questionnaire sent to Regional Community Liaison Officers in both regions solicited information on what community policing arrangements are in place at the regional and local levels. Interviews with local councillors determined how community representatives view community policing in their areas. Interviews with Officers in Charge addressed the extent to which the management of police divisions and clusters use information to identify local policing problems and have procedures for addressing any problems identified. A survey of operational police focused on the extent to which operational police interact with the local community and apply the principles of proactive policing in their daily work. The study found that QPS managers recognize that a corporate commitment to community policing and problem-oriented policing must be more fully integrated into service delivery. This report suggests this can be achieved through developing strategies for alleviating demands on resources to answer claims of heavy workload and insufficient time and staff to undertake community policing activities. Also suggested are the development of more useful strategies for the measurement of community policing activities, the establishment of local structures to involve community representatives in the resolution of policing problems, and the promotion of officers who are committed to and capable of implementing community policing. Extensive tables, 10 references, and appended examples of problem-solving initiatives, Officer in Charge interview schedule, and Operational Policy Survey Questionnaire