Introduction to American Policing

The purpose of  Dr. Champion and Dr. Hooper’s book, American Policing in the 21^st Century is to provide the reader with both an understanding of policing concepts and principles that affect the delivery of high quality police services.  The reader will gain insight into ways that policing can be improved.  Furthermore, the book examines policing from a temporary perspective with a focus on building police and community collaboration, not confrontation. Chapter 2 provides a historical perspective of the development of policing in ancient, feudal, and early English times, revealing principles that are still used by police today.  In Chapter 3 the evolution of policing in America is examined with emphasis on the events that have shaped modern-day policing.  Chapter 4 offers insight into the dynamics involved in the development of the police role.  How police departments are structured and organized is discussed in Chapter 5.  In Chapters 6 and 7 the processes and skills associated with the making of a police officer are examined.  Chapter 6 examines the process of recruiting, selecting, and training police officers while Chapter 7 focuses on the skills required of successful police officers.  The important issues of police behavior and stress is discussed in Chapter 8 with the intent to examine the dynamics associated with these phenomena.

      Police integrity and the factors that influence police ethics are discussed in Chapter 9.  The police and the law, to include civil liability, are examined in Chapter 10.  Chapter 11 looks at the delivery of police services, specifically patrol services, while Chapter 12 examines support services such as criminal investigations and traffic.  In Chapter 13 the critical and sensitive area of police and community relations is examined.  Chapter 14 addresses the area of research and planning, which is discussed in the framework of improving and changing the organization.  Finally, Chapter 15 examines new science, technology, and new paradigms that offer increased efficiency and effectiveness for police in the future.  To the goal of providing the reader with an understanding and appreciation of past, present, and future of American policing, the book is dedicated.  For more information on the textbook visit the Glencoe/McGraw Hill supplemental website for the textbook.

All content © 2005-2006, Methodist College, 5400 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28311 USA