Implementation of Community Policing

Question

Description

The community police officers involved in these programs are being asked to become community problem solvers. Their activities include:

•  Identifying the full range of problems experienced by community residents;

•  Working with community residents to develop strategies for addressing those problems.

•  Bringing in the appropriate public and nonprofit agencies to implement those     strategies.

Both the goals and the methods of community policing are similar to those of community development planning. Both activities are designed to create stable, healthy neighborhoods. Both seek to involve community residents in improvement efforts. Thus, planners and community police officers need to work together to maximize their impacts and to take advantage of the perspectives and skills that each profession brings to the task of improving living conditions within the neighborhoods.

Primary Task Response: Within the Discussion Board area, write 400–600 words that respond to the following questions with your thoughts, ideas, and comments. This will be the foundation for future discussions by your classmates. Be substantive and clear, and use examples to reinforce your ideas.

How would the implementation of community policing differ in the following communities?

Community 1

This urban community has a population of nearly 100,000 people, and it is often called “Little Poland” because of its large Polish population. Most residents are Polish-speaking, and they are immigrants directly from Poland. This town has many Polish-themed shops and services for the Polish population and tourists alike. It has always been considered a part of the city proper, but more and more it has become a separate entity. This community has long been protected by gang members, keeping the community safe from the prejudice of surrounding communities. Gang violence has recently increased in this community.

Community 2

This community, known as “Cotton Way,” was at one time a hub for the garment industry. There has been a decline in labor and production in the past 5 years. 65% of long-term residents of Cotton Way are over 60 years old, and many of these people were formerly employed by the garment factories. The closing of several factories has resulted in large-scale night clubs, which have brought prostitution and drugs to the area. They have attracted an influx of younger residents, which has been a problem for the elders in the community.