Community policing places strong emphasis on police-community relations. However, little attention has been paid to the theoretical foundation of this evolving policing strategy. This paper attempts to refine the definitional ambiguity surrounding the concept of community and works toward a moderating resolution of the inherent tensions of the rights-based and community-seeking presuppositions. The shift from traditional policing toward community policing represents a fundamental redefining of community in America. It represents the symbolic adoption of communitarian principles in the development and maintenance of communities, the building of social capital and the stimulation of collective action activities. The article proposes a conceptual model of community that allows the democratic principles of equity, effectiveness, accountability and efficiency to retain their integrity, while accommodating variation in community characteristics. It weaves community policing and community qualities into a strong partnership. Notes, references, bibliography