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Terrorism & Public Safety Policing

NCJ Number
209430
Journal
Crime and Justice International Volume: 21 Issue: 85 Dated: March/April 2005 Pages: 4-8
Author(s)
James F. Pastor
Date Published
March 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article attempts to explain how the threat of terrorism will change the nature of policing, a transitioning from a community policing model towards alternatives, specifically a private policing model.
Abstract
In the aftermath of recent terrorist incidents, police executives and administrators are faced with two constraints: public fear and financial burdens. They are being forced to respond with creative and innovative methods in policing. There is a silent, but fundamental shift in police response to public safety; a replacement of the dominant police strategy, community policing with a new policing model emphasizing tactical methods, technology, and alternative service providers, such as private security personnel. With the threat of terrorism community policing will become unsustainable. The private security industry, with more than 2 million security personnel is well positioned to assist in delivering security services to municipal governments and communities. In addition, using alternative service providers will supplement the service provision of policing agencies. These services are cost effective and reduce the service provisions required by sworn officers. Security firms are already operating in private environments, such as gated communities and corporate and college campuses. These supplemental services provide an additional level of security. The use of private security within public environments is likely to be increased in direct relation to the level of terroristic threat. Due to the economic and operational realities of policing, the use of private policing within a public environment is necessary. The societal conditions influencing this new policing model are prevalent. However, in this time of redefining the nature of policing, the delicate balance between security and liberty cannot be lost. 9 Notes