History of the American Police

Mr. Whitaker

VocabularyCoroner—the medical examiner of a county,usually elected by popular vote. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)—thebranch of the Department of Justice responsible for investigating violations of federal law. Spoils System—a form of corruption in whichthe political party in power hires and promotespolice officers, receiving job-related “favors” in return.

VocabularyProfessional Model—a style of policing thatemphasizes centralized police organizations, increased use of technology, and a limitation of police discretion. Sheriff—the primary law enforcement officer in a county, usually elected to the post by a popular vote.Private Security—the practice of private corporations or individuals offering services traditionally performed by police officers.

History of the Police The Romans achieved

a high level of law enforcement (Centurions)

Military Bodies as Guardians of Peace

Police During the Middle Ages responsibility of local

nobles The constable's duties

included keeping the peace and arresting and guarding criminals

Industrial Age London

1829 established the London Metropolitan

Police—1st modern organized police

Became a model for American Police

Early American Police Early efforts in American cities were

focused on controlling certain groups, regulating trade, maintaining health and sanitation.

Governors of the colonies appointed a sheriff in each county, their duties included managing jails and selecting juries

The First Police Department 1801 Boston created first formal night

watch. 1833 Philadelphia created a day and night

watch. 1838 Boston formed first organized police

department. 1844 New York combined its day and night

watches under a single chief of police.

The Spoils System Corruption rampant. This period also

known as the political era, this patronage system lasted from approximately 1840 to 1930.

Modernization of the American Police

1929, President Hoover created the Wickersham Commission which focused on two areas of policing that needed reform: police brutality and the corrupting influence of politics.

Focused on Professionalism and Administrative reform

Professionalism August Vollmer known

as father of modern police administration.

Promoted higher learner for police officers.

Promoted professional model of policing.

Administrative Reforms Police chiefs began to take control of their

departments. Upper management positions were created

in the department. Special units were created. Beginnings of new technology: fingerprints,

patrol cars and other developments.

Fingerprints http://www.history.com/media.do?

action=clip&id=mm_evidencetech_broadband

Patrol Cars http://www.history.com/media.do?

action=clip&id=mm_copcars_broadband

Turmoil in the 1960s Civil rights. Vietnam era. Police were thought to

contribute to the problems.

Returning to the Community Programs initially focused on time it took

police to react to crime. Eventually focus became proactive,

focusing on preventing crime before it is committed.

By the 1980s, the focus became more of a partnership with the community to prevent crime.

Private Security Privatizing Law

Enforcement Ideally, the role of

private security should be to “observe and report.” Generally designed to create a deterrence to crime.

Problems with Private Security Lack of Standards No federal regulations. Several states (such as California and

Florida) have requirements of at least 40 hours of training.

High turnover rates. Low pay.

Continued Growth in the Industry Increase in public fear of crime. Problem of crime in the workplace. Budget cuts in public policing agencies. Increased awareness in private security

products.

Private Security Project Research a private security company and

answer questions about their company and the services they provide.

Police Write down ten things that American police

officers do.

Four Basic Responsibilities To enforce laws To provide services To prevent crime To preserve the peace

Enforcing Laws (Public and Officer perception) Primary role

is to enforce society’s laws Majority of time not spent in crime fighting

Providing Services Provide services for

the community Police services are

numerous Community Policing

Preventing Crime Two responses from community when the

crime rises

Stricter laws and punishments

Police do something to prevent crime from

Happening

Is it possible for police to prevent all crimes?

Preserving the Peace Police have the legal authority to arrest, use

force, and preserve the peace “Handling the situation” “Cracking down on minor offenses”