Police in democracies do the same things that police under authoritarian regimes do. What distinguishes one from the other are the seven basic principles of policing in a democracy, which include operating in accord with the constitution and laws, displaying conduct governed by a professional code of conduct, and serving the public and being accountable to the public they serve. Entry points for departmental reform include departmental control, police management and leadership, police training, the organizational approach, internal investigation and discipline, and computer technology. State mechanisms for reform include executive oversight, courts, legislatures, media, civilian complaint review, and non-governmental organizations. Citizens in democracies control police through the department, through the state, and through institutions of civil society. Control at every level must be strong. The mechanisms that hold police accountable for public safety must be coordinated with those that hold police accountable for corruption and abuse. The process of reform begins with politics and opportunity. None of the accountability mechanisms belongs to only one place. Each is being tried in several different democratic societies. Although the political climate, legal norms, and the individuals are distinct, those working to strengthen any one of these mechanisms can benefit from the experiences of others. 1 table, 6 footnotes, 20 references