CRIM 1100: Introduction to Criminal Justice System - Week 4

These flashcards summarize key concepts and terms from the lecture notes on police powers, decision-making, community policing, and crime prevention strategies.

What are the unique authorities of the police?

Police have the authority to deprive a citizen of their freedom and use force.

What is the difference between lawful authority and moral authority in policing?

Lawful authority is the legal right to act, while moral authority considers the ethical implications of that authority.

What do Police Acts provide?

They provide the legislative framework for police services, set principles of policing, and outline complaint and disciplinary processes.

What does Section 7 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms state?

Everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security.

What is police discretion?

Discretion is the power or right to decide or act according to one's own judgment.

How does racial profiling differ from bias-free policing?

Racial profiling relies on stereotypes related to race, while bias-free policing relies on reasonable suspicion and probable grounds.

What is 'carding' in police practice?

Carding is when police stop a citizen to gather information that is then entered into a database.

What constitutes excessive use of force by police?

Using more force than what is necessary for the situation, which can result in criminal or civil liability.

What is the 'Mr. Big' technique in policing?

A controversial technique involving an undercover operation where police entice a suspect to confess.

What are primary crime prevention programs?

Programs that identify criminal opportunities and alter conditions to reduce crime likelihood.

What are some challenges in community policing?

Historical distrust among indigenous communities and lack of resources to respond to mental illness.

What are the core strategies of tactical-directed patrol?

Intensive police presence in crime hot spots and targeting high-risk offenders.

What role do specialized units play in police investigations?

They focus on serious, complex crimes and may integrate across different law enforcement agencies.

What are the three types of crime prevention strategies?

Primary, secondary, and tertiary crime prevention programs.

What is CompStat used for in policing?

A management tool to track crime trends and hold police accountable for performance.

Why is there a focus on community engagement in policing?

To improve relationships and trust between police and communities, reducing friction and enhancing cooperation.