NCJ Number
83236
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 49 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1982) Pages: 54-58
Date Published
1982
Length
5 pages
Annotation
A procedure for developing written regulations for small police departments is presented, and the manuals of uniform procedure for law enforcement agencies throughout Washington State are described.
Abstract
It is essential that the policy administrator provide for the promulgation of written directives, because of the need for strict procedural guidelines in the arena of civil service regulations, union contracts, and the public's demand for accountability. Directives are essential in the training of new officers as well as the inservice training of experienced officers. Well in advance of writing the directives, proposed directives should be submitted to political officials for their input. Steps in developing the written directives should include (1) a review of existing policies; (2) staff input; (3) prioritizing of the policies developed; (4) selection of a format; (5) development of general, special, and personnel directives; and (6) establishment of methods of distribution. Resistance to new directives may be overcome or diminished through input from affected entities, the use of advisory councils, and the securing of political backing. In writing the directives, attention should be given to the statement of purpose, tone, language, style, review of the draft, and distribution. Evaluation of compliance with the new directives should be made through formal and informal monitoring. Washington State developed a model manual for use without substantial modification in smaller agencies. The Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs also developed a document to provide a series of choices in a number of areas relating to administration of commissioned personnel.