NCJ Number
109118
Date Published
1986
Length
11 pages
Annotation
In Australia, the development of specialized tactical units for policing public order offenses has changed the traditional community policing approach.
Abstract
The tone of much criticism of public policing strategies has implied that such methods are part of a conspiracy to prop up a failing capitalist state and subjugate those who otherwise would become disaffected. Such criticisms appear to deny the state's duty to protect the public order and assume that the causes of disorder are always to be found in the economic or social policies of the ruling elite. It is the state's duty not only to protect the rights of those who would protest but also the rights of those protested against and the general public. In fulfilling this mandate, the state must develop a balanced response that considers the often conflicting interests of those involved and the effects of responses on the dynamics of interactions and how responses will influence all parties. While policing involves service, it also requires the legitimate exercise of force in some situations, as well as discretion in how that force is exercised. Mass public disorders represent a great challenge to organized government and make more manifest the right to use coercive force. 23 footnotes.