Research note: Spokane community policing officers revisited

Abstract

Looks at a project in Spokane, Washington in which two community police officers (CPOs) were assigned to two economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Finds that there is a continuing need for improving communication between police and the neighborhood residents and between residents themselves. Notes the importance of improving the image of law enforcement and encouraging residents to take an active role in solving crime‐related problems in their neighborhood. Says that CPOs enjoy their work and appear quite successful at it; that those who come into contact with CPOs appreciate them. Comments that the flexibility to interact with residents on a personal level and view problems from a local perspective seems to help in problem solving.