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Civilianization: Its Effect on the Future Role of the Police Investigative Function

NCJ Number
111023
Author(s)
R W Gregson
Date Published
1987
Length
72 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the emerging trend toward civilianization of law enforcement and its future application in the police investigative function.
Abstract
A future analysis process was used to identify major trends and their impact on policing in the future. Trends considered include increased costs of police services, increased demand for services, pressures for effective use of resources and control of expenditures, development of alternative delivery systems, responsiveness to community needs, and innovations in police technology. On the basis of this analysis, three alternative future scenarios are developed. The scenario identified as most likely is the increased use of civilians in police investigative functions as a function of the cashless society, improved security and identification systems, associated changes in crime targets, and advances in computer technology and computer-aided investigation. Plans for implementation and transition management for this scenario are provided. 6 references and tables.