Community, Policing and Accountability

This book explores police accountability models from the 1980s, focusing on community relations and the need for reform. Community, Policing and Accountability offers critical insights into these issues.

Originally published in 1994, Community, Policing and Accountability delves into the various models of police accountability that emerged in the 1980s. Through comprehensive research conducted in Manchester, this work highlights the local government's initiatives aimed at fostering a new social contract between the police and the community. The author presents a detailed analysis of the challenges and opportunities that arose during this transformative period.

The book situates its findings within broader theoretical discussions surrounding participatory democracy. It critically examines how these models of accountability can influence the relationship between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. The conclusion emphasizes the pressing need to address the complexities inherent in establishing effective police-community relations, particularly in the context of Britain's inner cities.

Community, Policing and Accountability also evaluates the implications of policing reorganization during the 1980s and its potential to create a more accountable police service. Notably, it was one of the pioneering texts in the UK to advocate for an abolitionist stance, a perspective that has gained prominence in contemporary discussions surrounding Black Lives Matter. In light of ongoing debates about police accountability and race relations, this book remains a relevant and thought-provoking resource for understanding the dynamics of policing in modern society.