The constitutional and State system of the U.S. is characterized by a high degree of autonomy within local governments. As a result, the structure of States, cities, counties, and their respective administrative and legislative bodies varies widely, with the exception of those matters dealt with at the Federal level of government. This situation allows law enforcement and crime prevention organizations, including police, prosecutors, private security industry, and the public, latitude in choosing different ways to deal with crime. In recent years, the community policing approach to crime prevention has gained popularity in many American cities.