Policing in Medieval England and U.S. History

A comprehensive set of flashcards summarizing critical concepts from the lecture notes on the history and organization of policing in Medieval England and the U.S.

What are tithings in the context of Medieval England policing?

Tithings were groups of ten families who were responsible for each other’s behavior and for reporting crimes.

What was the hue and cry in Medieval England?

A public cry for help or assistance in the apprehension of a suspect or responding to a crime.

What role did the shire reeve play in the 13th century?

The shire reeve, or sheriff, was responsible for law enforcement and maintaining order in a county.

What characterized the watch system established in the 18th century?

It involved citizens forming groups to patrol and watch over the town to maintain order during the night.

What were the primary regional differences in policing between the Northeast and the South in the U.S.?

The Northeast was characterized by commercial/industrial centers and associated crime, while the South was rural with plantations and slave labor, requiring slave patrols.

What is a posse in the context of policing?

A group of local citizens who assist law enforcement agencies in apprehending criminals.

What are the three main eras of American policing?

1. Political Era, 2. Professional Era, 3. Community Problem-Solving Era.

What was a significant change brought about by the Professional Era of policing?

The formation of the International Association of Chiefs of Police in 1893, which called for civil service and a centralized organizational structure.

How did the 1960s impact police-community relations?

Influenced by Supreme Court decisions, civil rights movements, and the Vietnam War, there was a growing demand for reform in policing.

What is community-oriented policing (COP)?

A policing strategy that focuses on building relationships and partnerships with the community to address public safety issues.

What distinguishes problem-oriented policing from community policing?

Problem-oriented policing may involve the community only if it is the best way to solve specific issues, while community policing emphasizes active community involvement.

What was the significance of the Rodney King beating in 1991?

It led to widespread rioting and heightened calls for police reform in the United States.

What are the primary responsibilities of municipal police?

Investigating crimes, settling disputes, providing emergency medical services, and traffic enforcement.

What is the role of state police?

They typically patrol highways, operate crime labs, and support local police departments.

What distinguishes federal police from other types of law enforcement?

Federal police have limited responsibilities and do not provide general police services; they focus on investigating federal law violations.

What are special-purpose police?

Police who have full police powers but operate within limited jurisdictional boundaries, such as public housing or transit.