Challenges in Policing and Law Enforcement
The criminal justice system is primarily concerned with law enforcement and the search for justice, and the police are the first point of contact in this system. The police are in charge of law enforcement; it is, in fact, the sworn duty of every police officer to "uphold the law." The American criminal justice system depends upon these men and women to do so. Policing is a complex balance of interpersonal interaction, upholding laws, and protecting freedoms. Police officers encounter any number of challenges as they attempt to maintain this balance and execute their duties assisting citizens, resolving disputes, and enforcing criminal law.
Select one challenge in each area of policing duties-assisting citizens, resolving disputes, and enforcing criminal law-to focus on in this Discussion.
Think about how police might address each of these challenges.
Submit 150 - 500 word response: Your thoughts on the following statement-"police officers are expected to enforce the law while meeting the needs of the community." Explain how and why this could be challenging for police officers as they carry out their duties (assisting citizens, resolving disputes, and enforcing criminal law.) Be specific and use examples to illustrate your points.