Everyone a Sheriff

Everyone a Sheriff illustrates the importance of citizen involvement for the health and wellbeing of our communities. The theoretical perspective is supported by practical national and international examples to stress how community engagement and collaborative partnerships are beneficial to all involved. In other words, safety is everyone's responsibility.

-- Detective Beth Sanborn, School Resource Officer, Lower Gwynedd Police

Greenberg’s book is a refreshing and necessary conversation for the future of the criminal justice field. The historical and current citizen roles in policing provide a well-rounded discussion and demonstrate the need for community support in policing.

-- Shavonne Arthurs, Seton Hill University

Though much was already known about public law enforcement, private police forces, private security entities, police ancillary groups, community groups that assist in preventing and solving crimes, and the use of confidential informants, the reading of Everyone a Sheriff: The Democratization of Crime Prevention in America was catalytic. The book reveals an abundance of practices for the engagement of the citizenry in service and order maintenance functions. Author Martin Greenberg captures the “big picture” thinking necessary to perpetually prepare today’s policing environment for tomorrow through the integration of more innovative roles and expanded partnerships. The author’s underlying central thesis is compellingly presented in both content and context.

-- Dr. Delmar Wright, Saint Leo University

Everyone a Sheriff presents a very detailed history of volunteered public service in American History. More specifically, the author makes a solid argument for his case for partnership in crime control; and citizenship involvement in policing. In other words, for crime control, while police play the role of Batman figure, the public becomes the sidekick, Robin, because crime cannot be eradicated without help from the crowd. The book's simplistic but vibrant language style makes it very easy to read, making the reader's journey from policing ancient times to America's modern-day metropolises as smooth as it gets. The vivid descriptions of each historical anecdote event and figure make me feel like living the era and specific time again. The book has done a great job by delving into the origin story of almost every significant organization and introducing the many historical faces in America.

-- Hasan T. Arslan, PhD, Division of Justice and Law Administration, Western Connecticut State University

Dr. Greenberg provides historical context and uses a sociological perspective to explore the important role citizens play in community safety. He presents an evidence-based framework to develop better approaches to crime prevention moving forward. Breaking down divisions between officer and citizen through volunteerism can help develop mutual respect and understanding among these two, often divided, groups. By engaging the help of community members, including youth, through voluntary partnerships, promising potential for greater safety and improved police-citizen relationships emerges. Through detailed research of existing and historical programs, Dr. Greenberg offers a refreshing perspective and gives hope during some dark times.

-- Dr. Beth Easterling, Mary Baldwin Univer