Assignment task: This chapter is about the structure of criminal justice organizations which encompasses the police, courts and corrections. Let's take a look at the organizational structures of correctional agencies, law enforcement agencies, and courts in both sovereigns. As part of the discussion, consider whether one of these criminal justice agencies operates with an open or closed system. Closed systems are hierarchical, formal, and mechanistic. Open systems are informal and organic. They rely on professionalism. Also consider Centralization versus Decentralization. In centralized organizations important decisions are made by upper managers. In decentralized organizations important decisions are made in the lower levels.
You may address one prompt or all three if you like. You may formulate your own thoughts on a similar topic or by using an example of a current event.
- Given these two factors, e.g., Open versus Closed systems and Centralization versus Decentralization, which do you believe would be the most successful approach to running an agency, e.g., police, courts and corrections? You can choose one of the three or a combination of all three.
- Should we consider the missions of the these agencies, its organizational structure, and the major areas of its services?
- If we consider Community Policing models for example and how the role of police departments in public safety management have sought to reduce crime through improved relationships and direct partnerships between citizens and police, which do you think would be the best approach?