Role of the First-Line Patrol Supervisor in Medium-Sized Police Departments by the Year 2004

• NCJ Number: 154745
• Author(s): R E Hunt
• Date Published: 1995
• Length: 110 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: California Cmssn on Peace Officer Standards and Training
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services; POST Media Distribution Ctr
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This futures-oriented study examined the role of field supervisors in medium-sized police departments by the year 2004.

Abstract

The study examined the traditional "command and control" model and found it ineffective and counterproductive in the rapidly changing environment within which most police departments operate. Current community-oriented policing and problem-oriented policing strategies were examined and found that supervision models described in those strategies are incomplete and rely heavily on the traditional model. The study examined current trends and potential events and generated future scenarios regarding the role of first-line patrol supervisors. This research, coupled with recommendations from expert panels, identified new supervisory role behaviors that emphasize leadership and recommend changes in organizational structure and use of technology to further the success of the new role. Study results describe the first-line supervisor as a police and community leader, leading to a future role of police community supervisor in contrast to the traditional sergeant's role. 31 notes and a 39-item bibliography