NCJ Number
128509
Date Published
1989
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This chapter considers issues in reassessing priorities that determine the allocation of law enforcement resources in Queensland, Australia.
Abstract
The discussion concludes that the police effort to enforce laws which prohibit behavior that is widespread, difficult to detect, and difficult to prove is particularly expensive and drains police resources from the enforcement of other laws that may be more injurious to citizens. Also, laws that prohibit activities for which there is a substantial demand are attended by a profit potential that attracts organized crime and corruption of public officials. Laws difficult to enforce may also increase pressure for greater inroads into citizens' civil liberties. Overall, unless there are pressing reasons to do so, it is futile to attempt to stop morally repugnant, but relatively noninjurious behavior about which the community is divided. Consideration should be given to the decriminalization or legalization of prostitution, pornography, bookmaking, and gambling, while enforcing other laws applicable to criminal behaviors within the contexts of these activities. Regulatory control and the use of personnel other than fully trained police officers could save money in the control of railway security, liquor control, and traffic control. Drug law enforcement is a complex issue, but it is clear that the current strategy is not cost-effective. Law enforcement might also increase the use of fees connected with services rendered.