What are the major principles of each style of policing? Can an officer fit into more than one category?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The four basic styles of policing are the crime fighter, the social agent, the law enforcer, and the watchman. The crime fighter believes that the most important aspects of police work are investigating crimes and apprehending criminals. They focus on the victim and want to hold"dangerous classes" in check. Misdemeanors would be better handled by other agencies of the government and nonenforcement duties are harmful to police efforts to create a secure society. The social agent believes that the police should be involved in a wide range of activities without regard for their connection to law enforcement. Rather than "criminal catchers," they are community problem solvers and are happy to work with special-needs populations. The law enforcer wants to do everything "by the book." The police role should enforce all statutes and ordinances, is devoted to the profession and police work, and is most likely to aspire to command rank. The watchman is characterized by an emphasis on maintaining public order rather than law enforcement or general service. They choose to ignore may infractions and requests for service unless they believe that the social or political order is jeopardized. Officers almost always fit into more than one category, although one style will serve as their dominant belief. Student answers will vary with regard to what style they think is most beneficial.