DISCUSSION WK3
The status of a police officer's is a responsible one, given that it entails the safeguard of property and life, the exposure and impediment to crime, and the apprehension of criminals and offenders inside the societal confines. To achieve this, a police officer implements State, County, and City rules and decrees, whilst working directly with community members, merchants, and designated and non-elected representatives. The work of the police surpasses the enforcement of laws. They are as well projected to be role models in the society and dynamic in every way to develop the general quality of life for all citizens and foreigners. Therefore it is imminent for the police work together or in line with the needs of the community, the community they are pledged to protect.
However, there are some challenges the police officers encounter especially when carrying some of their duties, which include assisting citizens, resolving disputes and enforcing criminal law. One of such challenges involves the fact that different communities perceive the police in a diverse light. Individual police offers are actually great people. Most have the correct orientation, desiring to serve and protect. For example, in most Hispanic towns, these individuals are seen as outsiders and untrustworthy individuals with an inclination towards exploiting the community. This makes it difficult for the police to assist citizens, resolve disputes, and enforce criminal law.
Another important challenge towards the police executing the mandate is the balancing of the enforcing criminal law and maintaining the good rapport with the community, which involves assisting citizens. This is the reason most police units have introduced community policing. Policing is a multifaceted equilibrium of interpersonal interface, upholding laws, and shielding freedoms. Police officers come across many challenges as they endeavor to uphold this balance and carry out their duties. One day you are helping an old lady cross the road, the next day you are involved in a scenario where you have to shoot a criminal dead, who happens to be the old lady only son. What do you think the old lady will think of you? This challenge is a complex one and needs more handling.
Schafer, A. Joseph., Huebner, M. Beth and Bynum, S. Timothy (2003) Citizen Perceptions of Police Services: Race, Neighbourhood Context, and Community Policing. Police Quarterly, Vol. 6 (4) pp. 440-468.
