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The English Heritage
American policing traces its roots to English heritage, especially in its concepts of community responsibility, local control, and the sheriff’s role. The constable, sheriff, and watch systems were imported into colonial America. These practices established the foundation for decentralized and locally accountable policing.
Link: https://www.britannica.com/topic/police/The-development-of-police-in-England -
Law Enforcement in Colonial America
Colonial law enforcement mirrored English traditions, relying on constables and sheriffs to enforce the law. Watchmen patrolled at night, and enforcement was deeply intertwined with social hierarchies and local governance. Slave patrols in the South were among the earliest forms of organized policing. Link: https://lawenforcementmuseum.org/2020/02/10/colonial-policing/ -
The Political Era (1830s–1900)
The political era saw police departments under the heavy influence of local politicians and political machines. Officers provided services like housing for the homeless, but corruption and lack of professionalism were rampant. Patronage determined hiring and promotion. Link: https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/political-era-american-policing -
The First Modern American Police
Boston (1838), New York (1845), and Philadelphia (1854) established the first modern police forces. These agencies emphasized preventive patrols, wore uniforms, and were funded by taxes. However, political influence often compromised their effectiveness. -
The Professional Era (1900–1960)
The Professional Era focused on crime control, efficiency, and reducing political influence. Leaders like August Vollmer advocated scientific management, centralized command, and technology use (e.g., cars, radios). However, this also created distance between police and communities. Link: https://www.theiacp.org/what-is-policing -
The Police Crises of the 1960s
Civil rights protests, urban riots, and public disillusionment marked this era. Police were criticized for brutality and bias, especially against minorities. The legitimacy of law enforcement was deeply questioned. Link: https://www.pbs.org/video/1960s-police-brutality-and-public-response-xyz123/ -
New Developments in Policing (1970–Present)
Policing underwent reforms like community policing, problem-oriented policing, and CompStat systems. Departments began emphasizing partnerships, data-driven strategies, and accountability. Technology, diversity, and public scrutiny reshaped law enforcement. Link: https://cops.usdoj.gov/ -
The National Police Crisis (2014–Present)
Triggered by events in Ferguson and elsewhere, this era features intense scrutiny of police use of force and systemic bias. Calls for defunding, reform, and new accountability measures dominate national discourse. Link: https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/national/ferguson-police-shooting/ -
The Evidence Era (Future)
The Evidence Era will prioritize data transparency, predictive analytics, and evidence-based practices. Officers will be trained as problem solvers and collaborators with communities, using AI, body-cam analytics, and restorative justice programs. This era aims to restore legitimacy through measurable results and community partnership. Link: https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/evidence-based-policing