M5A1

The dangers inherent in police work are brought to the public’s mind  when police are killed in the line of duty. This is especially true when  it is apparent that the officers were deliberately ambushed. Clearly,  the relationship between police and community differs widely from place  to place.

• Discuss how perceptions of police can differ across different communities or cultures.
• Critics of police have questioned the “militarization” of local  police in America. Explain what is meant by this term and analyze  whether it is an accurate characterization.
• Earlier in the course, we examined “positive” theories, which  suggest that criminal behavior is often influenced by factors outside  the offender’s control. Can positive theories apply also to police  officers who use excessive force or otherwise abuse their power?
• Police agencies across the country are increasingly turning to the  use of “body cams.” These are devices worn on the uniform of a patrol  officer in order to record audio and video during encounters with  residents. Proponents believe body cams will deter and detect instances  of police misconduct. What are the drawbacks of body cameras? What  position do police unions take on this issue?

APA citations and references