PA 351: Police Community Relations

This course is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of community policing. The history of policing is examined in such a way as to explain why this concept became so important in American policing in the 1960's and how that idea has evolved into the 21st century. Proactive policing and problem solving are emphasized along with overcoming resistance to community policing within police bureaucracies. Students will gain an understanding of the benefits and challenges of creating partnerships with the community and how to implement policing strategies with regard to creating safe neighborhoods, improving the quality of life for communities, reducing specific and/or violent crime and preventing potential acts of terrorism.