 |  The Police in America, 4/e Samuel Walker,
University of Nebraska
Charles M. Katz,
Arizona State University-West
Foundations Police and Society
Chapter Overview| This chapter provides an introduction to the role of the police in the United States and discusses several issues related to the perceptions, purpose, and functions of the police. First, myths and realities about the role of the police are addressed. For example, this chapter explains how the image of the police as primarily "crime-fighters" is an unrealistic portrayal of the true responsibilities of the police. This discussion includes the sources and consequences of the crime-fighter image. Next, factors that shape the police role and characteristics of police work are described. The chapter concludes with a discussion on alternative strategies to the traditional policing approach and organizational issues that must be addressed regardless of the policing strategy. |
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2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education