NCJ Number
144813
Date Published
1993
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This paper provides guidelines for police behavior in interaction with citizens so as to foster positive and cooperative citizen attitudes toward police.
Abstract
A police force cannot operate efficiently and effectively without the respect and cooperation of the general public. It is important, therefore, that police officers interact with citizens in a manner that promotes such respect and cooperation. This can be done by performing prescribed duties with courtesy and respect toward the public. Such courtesy must be combined with dignity in the exercise of authority. Effectiveness and results in the performance of assignments will also elicit citizen confidence in the police. Public confidence and respect for the police is undermined when citizens experience or observe a police officer exhibiting an overbearing attitude and attempting to demean a citizen in public; when they use excessive force in the management of suspects; when they break traffic laws citizens are expected to observe; when they drink on duty; when they manifest a casual or indifferent attitude toward the plight of citizens; and when they abuse their authority and fail to respect the rights of others.