Policing in America

Policing in America

Part 1

My article titled “Did De-Policing Cause the Increase in Homicide Rates” by Rosenfeld and Wallman (2019) reviews whether de-policing has augmented homicide cases in America. In recent years, the United States has witnessed increased cases of killing of unarmed civilians by the police. Mainly, a significant number of policymakers have attributed this social problem to de-policing in that police departments are no longer using proactive measures such as arrest to avoid publicity and legal liabilities. The findings of this article fail to link fewer arrests with increased homicide rates. However, proactive policing practices such as targeted patrol, as well as the trust and confidence of communities, have on the police are effective in mitigating homicide rates. From this article, therefore, the question is: What should the police do to acquire confidence and trust from the public?

Travis B’s article titled “Is Policing Safer Today” by Nicholas Richardson, Kelle Barrick, and Kevin Strom reviews the status of policing today. In the end, Travis B asks whether the government should invest more money into preserving officers’ mental health by mandating mental health screenings on a recurring time frame for all employees and not just for those involved in massive events. Yes, I believe the government needs to enforcement agencies in the form of better equipment, health care, and training. In this way, these investments will foster the safety and security of both police officers and communities.

Jessica H’s article titled Why have Public Mass Shootings Become More Deadly” by Lankford and Silver seeks to provide reasons behind the increased adverse effect of mass shooting in America. In the end, she asks whether the current efforts by the government to combat mass shootings are sufficient. Accordingly, I believe that ongoing initiatives such as background checks are not enough to curb mass shootings in America. Outlawing deadliest guns like M15 rifle among private citizens is one way through which America can reduce the effect of mass shootings.

References

Lankford, A. & Silver, J. (2020). Why have public mass shootings become more deadly: Assessing how perpetrators’ motives and methods have changed over time. Criminal & Public Policy, 19, 37-60.

Richardson, N. J., Barricjk, K, & Strom, K. J. (2019). Is policing safer today: The case for a more comprehensive definition of dangerousness. Criminology & Public Policy, 18, 37-45.

Rosenfeld, R. & Wallman, J. (2019). Did de-policing cause the increase in homicide rates? Criminology & Public Policy, 18, 51-75.