NCJ Number
165848
Journal
American Journal of Police Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Dated: (1996) Pages: 97-116
Date Published
1996
Length
20 pages
Annotation
In contrast to a more traditional law enforcement role, the Spokane, Washington, Police Department views community-oriented policing (COP) as a model in which greater discretion is left to field officers to investigate complaints, resolve disputes, and refer citizens to appropriate social service agencies.
Abstract
The Spokane Police Department initiated a COP demonstration project in 1992 that involved the selection, training, and assignment of two community policing officers (CPO's) to two economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Because initial project results were encouraging, the Spokane Police Department expanded the project's scope in 1993 by assigning a CPO to a third disadvantaged neighborhood. Data were collected to monitor the COP project using a standardized questionnaire and direct observation. Key informants from middle schools and community centers indicated the need to improve communication between the police department and neighborhood residents. In addition, they noted the importance of improving the image of law enforcement and encouraging residents to take an active role in solving crime problems. Direct observation data suggested that CPO's enjoyed their work and were quite successful at it. Moreover, those who came into contact with CPO's appreciated the job the CPO's were doing and wanted them to continue. The popularity of CPO's in economically disadvantaged areas was probably attributable to their personal qualities, commitment to the COP philosophy, and training. 15 references, 10 notes, and 3 tables