Abstract:
It seems to be a reality of modern urban life that, from time to time, tensions can develop between law enforcement and community members or groups. Given this reality, it is worth doing some thinking about the best ways to prevent these tensions from developing in the first place, and of resolving them when they do. As for mutual understanding, the public is well aware that the average policeman's day can be stressful, but again, that is not excuse for being rude, obnoxious, and down right aggressive. Officers need to be reminded that they are PUBLIC SERVANTS, not judge, jury, and jailer. They need to realize that the public has rights, rights secured by the constitution which trumps any other rules, laws, and regulations. They need to stop treating these rights as if they were negotiable or non-existent. We have developed a framework that offers three contrasting approaches to improving police-public relations Which makes the most sense for this community--and why? We should work to: Improve police accountability Increase mutual understandingBuild healthier communities
