Capstone: Police Dangers

Title: Capstone Discussion Question Police Dangers Submitted by: Travis Hance Course: CJS210 Instructor: Jason Garner

Capstone: Police Dangers

What are the dangers of policing?

There are a number of dangers within policing. Interaction with most citizens is a combination of service and law enforcement. Officers are presented with a combustible mix of determining whether citizens present a potential danger, or a source of information. An officer must therefore maintain a constant sense of vigilance while respecting the rights to privacy and individualism guaranteed by the Constitution. Because deadly force is the ultimate ban on a persons civil liberties, the courts have regulated use of deadly force and consider it to be reasonable only as an absolute last resort. (Terry and Grant, 2008).

How do these dangers affect policing as you look to the future of policing?

The dangers that officers encounter on a daily basis while patrolling the streets of our country affect the future by promoting new technologies and equipment. Less than two decades ago, the thought of officers wearing body armor was unheard of. Weapons that were standard issue were most often revolvers. Now we see advances in body armor, which are thinner, lighter, and even composed of materials that are breathable and moisture wicking. Commonly issued weapons now utilize dual stack magazines, and are semi-

Capstone: Police Dangers automatic. These advances represent the best that science and society has to

offer, and increase the level of survivability that each officer has. Combined with advanced training and levels of professionalism, officers are better equipped than ever to not only protect the community, but themselves as well. The ultimate standard that defines use of force can be generally summed up by an officers judgment Generally, the officer or the public must be in imminent danger of life or limb. (Terry and Grant, 2008).

How can the safety of police be improved in the future?

The continued application of scientific advancement in materials, tools, training, and education are the best source of improvement. While criminals of all nations and areas continue to purchase the best weapons, technology, and information possible, we often see law enforcement falling behind. The continual dedication of our society to law enforcement, the tools, and training of such remains the best possible answer to all who would endanger the quality and sanctity of life that is best represented by the United States of America.

Capstone: Police Dangers

References

A. Terry, K. J., & Grant, H. B. (2008). Law Enforcement in the 21st Century, Second Edition, Published by Allyn & Bacon. Pearson Education, Inc., page 268

B. Terry, K. J., & Grant, H. B. (2008). Law Enforcement in the 21st Century, Second Edition, Published by Allyn & Bacon. Pearson Education, Inc., page 282