Assessing the Contributions of Police to Society

Police officers in America have the extraordinary task of maintaining order, enforcing the law, and providing services to residents of the community. Accomplishing these tasks within the limited authority allowed to them by the law is quite an achievement. The contributions that police make to society are not always measurable, but it is the presence of police that consistently provides citizens with a sense of safety, making for a more orderly and less fearful community.

In the United States, the powers and duties of police officers are specifically defined by law. These restrictions are in place because of the constitutional emphasis on ensuring due process and individual liberty. A police officer cannot invade the privacy of an individual based on mere suspicion of wrongdoing, but must convince a judge that there is probable cause for a warrant to be issued (Cole, 2004, p. 121). Physical force that can be used on a suspect is also limited, though often subject to the officer's discretion. In carrying out his duty, the officer must always remember he is accountable to his superiors, and ultimately, the community.

With these limitations in mind, an officer still has many duties that must be carried out consistently every day. The modern community-policing model instructs an officer to keep order and provide services for the community. There is still the aspect of "fighting crime," but not nearly as it was prior to the 1970's. Why solve a crime when you can prevent it? Statistically, the sheer number of police officers on the streets has little effect on the actual crime rate (Cole, 2004, p. 142). Rather, the contribution of police is found in the relationship that police have with the community.