Introduction to Policing - Key Concepts

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from the introduction to policing.

Crime Prevention

Programs designed to reduce crime and educate the public about safety measures.

Law Enforcement

The activity of enforcing laws and preventing crimes through patrol, traffic control, and investigations.

Order Maintenance

Police actions aimed at maintaining social order through interventions at minor disturbances.

Broken Windows Theory

The idea that reducing minor crimes can lead to a decrease in more serious crimes.

Zero-tolerance policing

An approach in which police enforce the law strictly with little or no discretion.

Peacekeeping

Police work aimed at intervening in potential threats to public safety and providing general public service.

Watchman Style

A policing style that considers the circumstances of each situation and applies discretion.

Legalistic Style

A policing style focused on strict enforcement of laws and production of arrests.

Service Style

A policing approach that emphasizes community relations and meeting community needs.

Police Discretion

The ability of police officers to make choices regarding the enforcement of laws based on individual judgment.

Selective Enforcement

The practice of officers using their discretion to choose which laws to enforce.

Graham v. Connor

A Supreme Court case that established a test for assessing the reasonableness of police use of force.

Less-than-Lethal Weapons (LTLW)

Weapons designed to incapacitate rather than kill, including chemical sprays and electric devices.

Community Policing

A strategy that focuses on building relationships between police and communities to enhance public safety.

Media Relations

The relationship between police and media, influenced by shared interests in community communication.

Tennessee v. Garner

A case establishing that police cannot use deadly force against unarmed, non-dangerous subjects.