Offering a balanced approach to problem-solving issues in a complex and changing world, this book focuses specifically on the subject of problem solving in policing. Featured selections include chapters on domestic security, disorderly youth, auto theft, prostitution, gang delinquency and crime in public housing. Other notable selections discuss the role of supervising police personnel engaged in problem solving, advances in using this approach in criminal investigations, solving serial crimes, preparing for terrorism, and developing patrol officers as effective first responders to active violence.

This book of original essays presents controversial topics, then encourages the readers to consider what they think ought to be done. The selections identify several of the existing issues in policing about which something needs to be done; then, they present various viewpoints on possible solutions. This is done against the backdrop of an era of significant change in worldwide security, post-9/11, that has caused major changes in the manner in which the U.S. conducts its political, social and economic affairs.

The authors provide stepping stones for rural and small-town agencies to make the organizational changes needed for community policing to take hold. The book introduces the concept of community policing and its many benefits to the agencies and communities that adopt it. Important issues discussed include the challenge of organizational change, as well as examples of community policing obstacles and successes, and the future of community policing in the 21st century.

Chapters are organized to look at key issues, discussion, and conclusion.
Appendices include sample surveys and focus group questions.

Offering a balanced approach to problem-solving issues in a complex and changing world, this book focuses specifically on the subject of problem solving in policing. Featured selections include chapters on domestic security, disorderly youth, auto theft, prostitution, gang delinquency and crime in public housing. Other notable selections discuss the role of supervising police personnel engaged in problem solving, advances in using this approach in criminal investigations, solving serial crimes, preparing for terrorism, and developing patrol officers as effective first responders to active violence.

The book arose from conversations with trainers at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center and the National Center for State and Local Law Enforcement.
Contributing authors come from a wide variety of backgrounds. As experts in their disciplines, they bring to this work a rich array of perspectives and innovative examples of successful problem-solving initiatives.

This book of original essays presents controversial topics, then encourages the readers to consider what "they" think ought to be done. The selections identify several of the existing issues in policing about which something needs to be done; then, they present various viewpoints on possible solutions. This is done against the backdrop of an era of significant change in worldwide security, post-9/11, that has caused major changes in the manner in which the U.S. conducts its political, social and economic affairs.

Chapter review questions provide an opportunity to synthsize the material from the chapters.

In the most understandable and comprehensive text to date on the subject of community policing, the authors trace the historical development of American policing through the community era of present day. They introduce readers to the concept of community in modern society and explore changes in the function and legitimacy of police organizations. The text offers numerous highlighted commentaries in every chapter from police officers, deputy sheriffs, chiefs, and other practitioners as well as noted police scholars. These real-world examples illustrate themes and issues to students. Community Policing in a Community Era emphasizes agency leadership, problem-solving, community engagement, coactive policing, organizational change, and strategic planning.
Key topics include:
* A history of American policing
* Policing at a time of change
* Why police organizations change
* Community policing in action
* The role of leaders and managers
* Community engagement
* Selecting and training employees for community policing
* Implementing community policing
* Evaluating community policing
* The future of community policin