Chicago Police Case Study

1323 Words3 Pages

Organization is the most important part of any business. In the business of criminal justice, organization is of the highest importance. Every day, hour, and minute must be accounted for, and at the same time all bases must be covered. This brings up a problem when trying to run a precinct that employs a lot of police officers. The Chicago Police Department is the principal law enforcement agency of Chicago, Illinois, in the United States, under the jurisdiction of the Mayor of Chicago. It is the second largest local law enforcement agency in the United States after the New York City Police Department. Chicago’s community policing effort is more extensive and organized than other jurisdictions. The Chicago Police Department has come a long way. It actually came about before Chicago became a city. On August 15 of 1835 a man by the name of Orsemus Morrison was elected as Chicago’s first constable, along with Luther Nichols and John Shrigley. They were a three-man police force that served and protected about 3,200 people. In 1855 there was a major reorganization. Captain Cyrus P. Bradley combined the day and night watches, increased the force by six times the number of officers, divided the City into three police precincts, and introduced a more professional, efficient command staff. Over the years female officers began to join the force, police cars were introduced, as well as police motorcycles and boats, and the first crime laboratory was established. In 1993 the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) was introduced. Superintendent Rodriguez introduced Chicago's community policing program (CAPS) in five districts. The program was implemented in all police districts in 1994 and serves as a model for several community polic... ... middle of paper ... ...on, identify and prioritize problems, and begin developing solutions to those problems (Robert M. Lombardo). Community policing in Chicago means more than officers going on foot. When it works, officers get to know their beats and the people who live on them, and residents are encouraged to report not only crime problems but also pressing community issues such as abandoned vehicles and neglected children. The police turn the complaints over to the appropriate city departments, and they expect their reports to be answered quickly and efficiently. The people of the city have to work together. Yes, Chicago has a great deal of organization and a good idea, but Chicago is still one of the cities with the highest crime rates. It may be hard because it is a big city, but if everybody would put their efforts together there would be more satisfaction in the city of Chicago.

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