Reading Notes- Policing

What shapes policework according to Chan (1997)?

Policework is shaped by historical, social, economic, legal, and political factors.

What does 'police fetishism' refer to?

The belief that police are essential for social order.

How is 'policing' defined compared to 'police'?

'Police' refers to a particular kind of social institution, while 'policing' implies a set of processes (Reiner, 2000).

What were the early features of policing in Australian colonies?

Control was vested in colonial governors; policing was performed by military, convict patrol, and Native Police.

What was significant about the Sydney Police Act of 1833?

It was the first explicit Police Act in Australia, functioning like a combined municipal and public order Act.

What does police culture refer to?

Informal norms, values, rules, and shared understandings shaping police behaviour (Reiner, 1992).

What are some common problems linked to police culture?

Corruption, racism and poor treatment of minorities, and excessive force.

What is police discretion?

The ability of police to choose between lawful options (Reiner, 1997).

What are the principles regarding Police Use of Force?

Force must be the minimum necessary, reasonable, and proportionate.

What is the impact of police accountability?

Police are accountable through law, internal discipline, ministerial oversight, and external review bodies.

What does 'pluralisation of policing' refer to?

The growth of private, hybrid, and non-state policing alongside state police.

How has the private security workforce changed in relation to state police?

The private security workforce is now double the size of state police (Prenzler et al., 2009).