2.1 Origins of modern policing

Modern policing has roots in 19th century England. Sir Robert Peel's Metropolitan Police Act of 1829 created the first professional police force in London, addressing rising crime in the growing city.

Peel's principles shaped police ethics and practices. The focus shifted to crime prevention, public cooperation, and minimal force. This laid the groundwork for today's community-oriented policing approaches.

Foundations of Modern Policing

Sir Robert Peel and the Metropolitan Police Act

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• Sir Robert Peel introduced the Metropolitan Police Act of 1829 in England
• Act established the London Metropolitan Police Force as the first modern police organization
• Peel served as Home Secretary and Prime Minister, advocating for police reform
• Metropolitan Police Act aimed to create a professional, uniformed police force
• Act addressed rising crime rates and social disorder in rapidly growing London

Structure and Operations of the London Metropolitan Police

• London Metropolitan Police organized into a centralized, hierarchical structure
• Force consisted of constables patrolling assigned beats in distinctive blue uniforms
• Officers nicknamed "bobbies" after Sir Robert Peel
• Headquarters located at Scotland Yard in London
• Implemented 24-hour patrol system to maintain constant presence and deter crime
• Focused on crime prevention rather than solely reactive law enforcement

Peelian Principles and Modern Policing Philosophy

• Peelian Principles formed the foundation of modern policing ethics and practices
• Emphasized prevention of crime and disorder as primary police mission
• Stressed importance of public approval and cooperation for effective policing
• Advocated for minimal use of force and impartial law enforcement
• Promoted idea that police are members of the public paid to give full-time attention to duties
• Established principle that police effectiveness measured by absence of crime, not visible police action
• Encouraged professionalism and ethical conduct among police officers

Early Policing Models

Evolution of the Watchmen System

• Watchmen system originated in medieval Europe as early form of community policing
• Consisted of citizens taking turns patrolling streets at night
• Watchmen equipped with lanterns and staffs, responsible for maintaining order and reporting fires
• System evolved in American colonies, with night watch established in Boston in 1636
• Limitations included lack of training, inconsistent enforcement, and corruption
• Watchmen often slept or drank on duty, leading to ineffective crime prevention

Development of the Constabulary Model

• Constabulary system emerged as more formalized approach to law enforcement
• Constables appointed by local authorities to maintain order and enforce laws
• Responsibilities included serving warrants, making arrests, and collecting taxes
• System prevalent in England and early American colonies
• Constables often unpaid, relying on fees collected from citizens for services
• Model faced challenges of corruption and selective enforcement based on social status

Transition to Preventive Policing

• Preventive policing concept developed in response to limitations of earlier models
• Emphasized proactive crime prevention rather than reactive response
• Introduced regular patrols and visible police presence to deter criminal activity
• Incorporated elements of community engagement and problem-solving
• Sir Robert Peel's London Metropolitan Police embodied preventive policing principles
• Model aimed to address root causes of crime and social disorder
• Preventive approach influenced development of modern community policing strategies