Police-Community Relations in Times of Crisis: Decay and Reform in the Post-Ferguson Era

The death of Michael Brown has uncovered an apparent legitimacy crisis at the heart of American policing. This book explores how policing of gangs and violence has changed in the post-Ferguson era and how it can promote effective crime prevention and gain public trust.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 226 pages
\n Publication date: 30 April 2021
\n Publisher: Bristol University Press
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The tragic death of Michael Brown at the hands of a white Ferguson police officer has exposed a deep-rooted legitimacy crisis within American policing. Some argue that the de-policing approach may have resulted in officers becoming less proactive in their duties.

In the aftermath of Ferguson, how has the policing of gangs and violence evolved? This book delves into this critical question, drawing upon extensive field notes and in-depth interviews with officers, offenders, practitioners, and community members in a Southern American state. As calls for police reform gain renewed momentum in the wake of George Floyd's death, this essential work provides valuable insights into shaping future policing practices to effectively prevent crime and rebuild public trust.

The policing of gangs and violence has undergone significant changes in the post-Ferguson era. Prior to Ferguson, law enforcement agencies often relied on a heavy-handed approach, employing tactics such as stop-and-frisk searches and mass arrests to address gang-related crimes. However, the events of Ferguson sparked widespread protests and calls for reform, leading to a shift in policing strategies.

One of the key changes observed is a greater emphasis on community policing. This approach involves officers building relationships with the communities they serve and working collaboratively to address crime and social issues. Community policing aims to foster trust between law enforcement and the public, promote dialogue, and address the root causes of crime.

Another change is the adoption of more progressive policing practices. Law enforcement agencies have begun to prioritize de-escalation techniques, use body cameras to increase transparency and accountability, and implement diversity and inclusion training for officers. These practices are designed to reduce the use of force and minimize the likelihood of racial profiling.

However, the journey towards effective policing of gangs and violence is still ongoing. There are ongoing challenges, such as racial tensions, a lack of resources, and a need for cultural competency among law enforcement. Additionally, there are concerns about the over-policing of certain communities, particularly communities of color, which can lead to distrust and exacerbate social divisions.

To address these challenges, it is important to continue promoting police reform and accountability. This includes investing in community-based programs that address the root causes of crime, providing adequate training and support for law enforcement officers, and establishing independent oversight mechanisms to monitor and evaluate police practices.

In conclusion, the death of Michael Brown has highlighted the need for significant reform in American policing. The policing of gangs and violence has undergone a shift towards community policing and progressive practices, but there is still work to be done to promote effective crime prevention and gain public trust. By continuing to prioritize police reform and accountability, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society.

\n Weight: 362g\n
Dimension: 234 x 155 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781529210613\n \n