10.6: Engagement

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One of the major areas of concern in policing is the violence that surrounds drug and gang activity. The increased number of handguns and other firepower, the role of organized criminals and youth gangs, and the amount of money involved in this activity have torn apart communities--created divisions within communities and between police and communities, particularly communities of color. Homicide rates, especially among minority youth, have also escalated.

Pressures and demands from different segments of the community have led to calls for aggressive policing, even if it entails the violation of individuals' rights. Field practices that violate accepted police practices and procedures are too often condoned in the name of expediency or pressure for immediate results. This issue represents a significant challenge to police executives and a department's value system.

The guidance the executive can provide on such a volatile issue begins with the value system of the police department and the systems established to put these values into operation. The community and law enforcement must be involved in developing a comprehensive approach to drugs and gangs that solicits the community's cooperation and support. The police department must address both the criminal acts and the community's fears or perceptions. Specialized training must be provided to the officers in: effective techniques for investigating drug activity, making arrests, developing intervention and diversion programs, establishing racial and cultural awareness programs, and developing broad based community support through such programs as a citizens' crime watch and D.A.R.E. The relationship between police and urban youth can become a positive partnership that includes police, parents, schools, community and business leaders, clergy, and the media. The relationship should be one that seeks both to prevent and to resolve problems of crime and disorder based on cooperation, collaboration, and mutual respect.