Most citizens, regardless of their country or nationality, tend to regard crime control and policing as one of the most important acts of government (Carrick, 2000). Policy formation in general and as it applies to policing is the process of establishing a direction for agency philosophy or employee conduct. Carrick (2000), in discussing policy formation and policing, noted that involving organizational decisionmakers and managers, elected officials, and members of the civic body in the policy development process ensures that policy moves from complete, accurate information and assumptions. One effective strategy for meeting desirable goals and objectives is the implementation of community policing.
Carter (1999) identified the process of "community policing" as one strategy employed by police departments to improve service to troubled communities, to reduce crime rates, and to establish more harmonious relationships between police and citizens. Community policing emphasizes, said Carter (1999), the integration of theory and practice. It renders communities more transparent, and makes police more visible and proactive in working with community organizations and residents to address problems of mutual interest and concern.
Many contemporary communities represent what Frank Perry (2001) characterized as excellent examples of the broken window theory which suggests that if enough "broken windows" in a neighborhood go unattended, the neighborhood falls into a moral and material malaise. "Broken windows" in this formulation are a symbol of community decay, poverty, and criminality. Community policing is a response to this issue which brings police officers into more intimate and proactive engagement with the community. It also empowers community residents to become more assertive in taking back their streets from criminals and gangs (Carter, 1999).
Community policing activities include: 1) identifying the full range...