Presenter: Christian William Marsden

Faculty Sponsor: MICHAEL MCCUTCHEON

School: Fitchburg State University

Research Area: Crime and Justice

Session: Poster Session 3, 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM, Concourse, B13

ABSTRACT

Policing in the United States is constantly evolving dating back to the early 1800's to present day society. In the 1800's through the 1900's the policing style was known as a "warrior" one which highlighted a crime fighting and aggressive tactics. In the early 2000's is when policing starts to shift towards a more "guardian" style which entails a more community oriented approach. Community policing aims to get law enforcement involved with their community which allows for building public trust, enhancing communication, improving the relationship between police and community members, problem solving and a decrease in the level of crime. In recent years there has been a lack of trust with citizens and their police departments. It's critical that we understand why there is a gap and what police can do to address this. The purpose of this project is to investigate Community Oriented Policing (COP) within Massachusetts Police Departments.  This project will examine how some Massachusetts Police Departments engage in COP. This will be done through interviews with police officers. Through this we will learn how police departments implement Community Oriented Policing and how officers use different strategies. The whole goal of COP is for the police to gain better relationships with the community so that society can function at the highest level.