Policing Concepts Overview

Emotional Intelligence

Ability to interpret, understand, and manage emotions, crucial in law enforcement for competencies like self-awareness and conflict management.

In-service training

Training occurring during an officer's career, regularly within the department, often mandatory.

Field Training

On-the-job program post-police academy under a Field Training Officer's guidance.

Field Training Officer

Experienced officer mentoring and training new recruits.

Adverse Impact

a form of de facto discrimination resulting from a testing element that discriminates against a particular group, essentially keeping members of that group out of the applicant pool.

De facto discrimination

Unspoken prejudice interfering with unity and equality.

Civilianization

Replacing sworn officers with civilians for non-enforcement tasks.

Civil service system

Hiring method to eliminate bias and political influence in government roles.

Span of Control

Number of subordinates a superior can effectively supervise.

Chain of Command

Concept where each individual reports to one immediate supervisor.

Quasi-Military organization

Structured like the military with strict authority and reporting.

Leadership defined

Individual's ability to influence and guide a group towards a common goal.

Management defined

Running an organization to achieve its goals effectively.

Campus law enforcement

Sworn officers protecting college property and individuals.

Local Control defined

Use of local government measures to deter undesirable behaviors.

Decentralized Model of law enforcement

Separation of traffic enforcement and state-level functions, common in southern and midwestern states.

Centralized Model of law enforcement

Combines major criminal investigations with state highway patrol.

The 'beat system'

Policing system assigning officers to small permanent posts.

Jury nullification

Jurors disregarding evidence to reach a verdict based on conscience.

The Wickersham Commission

Published the first national study of the US criminal justice system in 1931. Highlighted issues of short police commander terms, lack of effective officers, and inadequate communication systems.

Peel's Nine Principles

Guiding principles for policing including crime prevention and public cooperation.