The dynamics of technology and community policing

• In Event: Community policing a digitalized society

Abstract

In this presentation, we focus on the relationship between community policing and technology. This relationship is particularly interesting because there is an apparent contrast between both components. Community policing emphasises personal involvement and human relationships (See Cordner, 1997, 2014; Reisig, 2010), while technology at times gives the impression of reducing this human dimension in policing (e.g. Terpstra & Salet, 2022). Terpstra and Salet describe how policing is being 'dehumanised' within the context of the 'abstract police'. They refer to how social interactions have been pushed into the background and have largely been replaced by artificial (digital) systems and procedures, leaving less room for police officers to provide tailor-made services.

We present the state of the art in community policing and technology, based on a scoping review of the literature published since 2000. We find that there is some optimism about the contribution of technology to community policing, suggesting that it can promote transparency and facilitate citizen-police interaction. However, research shows that police organisations are struggling to meet these high expectations, and optimism is tempered by practical experience and empirical research. The ongoing discourse about technology and community policing highlights the necessity of customizing technology to suit particular contexts, considering both physical and social dimensions. It has become evident there is the need for a tailored approach that acknowledges the diversity of communities and the characteristics of police forces. In that sense, this state of the art is provoking a reflection on the core principles of community policing.

Authors

• Jasper De Paepe, Leiden University & Ghent University

• Marleen Easton, Universiteit Gent