Improving Police/Community Relations

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Improving Police/Community Relations

It seems to be a reality of modern urban life that, from time to time, tensions can develop between law enforcement and community members or groups. Given this reality, it is worth doing some thinking about the best ways to prevent these tensions from developing in the first place, and of resolving them when they do. We've developed a framework that offers three contrasting approaches to improving police-community relations. Which makes the most sense for this community--and why? We should work to:

Improve police accountability
Increase mutual understanding
Build healthier communities

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Re: Improving Police/Community Relations

On October 13, 2009 Anonymous says:

the police have to get beter weapons

Re: Improving Police/Community Relations

On September 2, 2010 Anonymous says:

What in the world does 'beter weapons' have to do with improving police/community relations?

Firepower is not the answer to improving the polices image in the community.

Accountability is the first, and best step. When the public feels that the police department fails to address, or covers up completely, officers transgressions, it promotes the feeling that the community cannot trust the police department, especially when other police officers are involved. Departments need to be open and honest with internal investigations of police complaints. They need to stop attempting to intimidate individuals who come to them with complaints about the police. They need to stop hiding behind each other and admit there is a problem, and then work to correct that problem with input from the community. There needs to be stiffer sanctions against officers who violate department rules and regulations or the law. Internal Affairs investigators need to honestly look at the actions of the officer which lead to a complaint being filed, rather than simply cover them up. Department rules and regulations need to be available to the general public, when asked for, and the individual asking should not be made to feel as if they are doing something wrong simply for asking for it.

As for mutual understanding, the public is well aware that the average policeman's day can be stressful, but again, that is not excuse for being rude, obnoxious, and down right aggressive. Officers need to be reminded that they are PUBLIC SERVANTS, not judge, jury, and jailer. They need to realize that the public has rights, rights secured by the constitution which trumps any other rule, law, or department practice. They need to stop treating these rights as if they were negotiable or non-existent.

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