Study Notes on the Evolution of Policing in the United States

Introduction to Policing History

  • Chapter five emphasizes:

    • History of policing in the United States

    • The organization of police forces

  • Importance of historical context for understanding modern policing

    • Learning from past mistakes in policing practices

    • Historical perspective can prevent repetition of failed policies

Historical Eras of Policing

  • Understanding the evolution of policing from ancient civilizations to modern times

  • Key historical periods to be discussed:

    • Early policing (e.g., Babylonian era)

    • Kin policing in ancient Greece

    • Development of formal policing in England

    • Political era (1840-1920)

    • Professionalization era (1920-1970)

    • Police crisis era (1960s)

    • Community policing era (1970s to present)

Early Forms of Policing

  • Origins of policing can be traced back to ancient civilizations:

    • Babylonian era: Pre-BC era policing was informal

    • Law enforcement tasks were assigned to official enforcers

    • Lack of a formal legal structure meant enforcement often reflected the whims of rulers

    • Ancient Greek kin policing:

    • Informal protection within family units

    • Retaliation as a form of justice (similar to modern alliances like NATO)

  • Transformation of policing due to migration and urbanization

    • Breakdown of informal systems led to the establishment of formal police departments

Evolution of Policing in Early England

  • Policing in England during the Roman conquest:

    • Very informal and local due to low and homogenous populations

    • Frank pledge system:

    • Responsibilities included responding to cries for help (hue and cry)

    • Community enforcement relying on the duty of able-bodied men

    • Development of city structures:

    • Tidings: Groups of 10 families

    • Shires: Larger areas akin to modern counties, leading to the role of sheriffs

  • Sheriff responsibilities:

    • Apprehending criminals

    • Collecting taxes and maintaining public infrastructure (e.g., bridges)

Informal Policing to Modern Departments

  • Historical context of informal policing leads to resistance against formal policing in the US

    • Concerns about authoritarianism after separating from British rule

    • Initial reluctance to establish formal police systems due to distrust

  • Emergence of Sir Robert Peel and the establishment of the first modern police force

    • Formation of the London Metropolitan Police in 1829

    • Introduction of the term “Bobbies” for police due to Peel's influence

    • Focus on crime deterrence and professionalism in policing

  • Adoption of military structures within police forces:

    • Chain of command similar to military organizations

    • Adoption of uniforms and training similar to military boot camps

The Political Era of Policing (1840-1920)

  • Description of the nature of policing during the political era:

    • Corruption and incompetence among police driven by political patronage

    • Police often served the interests of political leaders rather than community

    • Common practices:

    • Drinking alcohol on duty

    • Abuse of power (e.g., third-degree methods)

    • Lack of respect from the community

  • Introduction of firearms:

    • Police reluctant to carry weapons initially due to fear of being overpowered by criminals

    • Transition towards carrying firearms reflected evolving threats

Professionalization Era of Policing (1920-1970)

  • Transition towards formal police departments with established training requirements

    • Focus on removing corrupt political influences

    • Emphasis on higher standards for recruitment and training of police officers

    • Pioneering efforts of August Vollmer in establishing standards and education in policing

  • Development of new technologies impacting policing:

    • Introduction of two-way radios, automobiles, and telephone communication

    • Evolution of police roles to focus more on enforcement rather than community engagement

    • Creation of barriers between police and communities due to patrol cars

Police Crisis Era (1960s)

  • Period marked by civil unrest and challenges to police legitimacy:

    • Unrest from the Vietnam War, civil rights movements, and social changes

    • Allied opposition against authoritarian policing perceived by urban blacks and white hippies

    • Era coincided with significant Supreme Court rulings on criminal procedure (due process revolution)

  • Exploration of police discretion and the efficiency of the criminal justice system

    • Realization of discretion affecting policing outcomes and community relations

Community Policing Era (1970s-Present)

  • Emergence of community policing strategies focused on building relationships with communities

    • Shift from strictly law enforcement roles to include community engagement and partnership

    • Exploration of policing methods in response to crises and societal needs

  • Potential for new eras in policing post-2001:

    • Reflections on current challenges in policing reminiscent of the crises in the 1960s

    • Ongoing evaluation needed to understand and address issues in modern policing