The Police in American Society

Dolan, Edward F.; Scariano, Margaret M.

ISBN 10: 053110608X ISBN 13: 9780531106082

Publisher: Franklin Watts, 1988

Synopsis

Examines the widely varying duties of law enforcement officials and how their functions affect society, discussing the impact of their presence and their role in maintaining order and keeping the peace.

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Grade 8 Up Dolan traces the history of law enforcement as a separate organization from the military, a practice which began in Britain with the "sheriff" system. The largest part of this book deals with the role of the police in the community. Readers also learn about the training and daily routines of police officers. The problems of police work, such as the high stress and low esteem that officers face, is also discussed. Readers are also given a solid look at harrassment, excessive force, brutality, and corruption with examples and suggestions for remedies. Dolan does not speak positively about the police "Code of Silence," which often protects incompetence and wrongdoing. This is a balanced picture of a misunderstood keystone of society. Dolan leaves readers with the impression that the police are responsive to the public whom they serve and so ultimately are no better or worse than the public demands. This is a good introductory book because it presents a clear portrait of police work, and yet shows the hazards and glories. It would be a good book for vocational collections as well as social studies assignments. Steve Matthews, Foxcroft School, Middleburg, Va.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Franklin Watts
• Publication date: 1988
• ISBN 10: 053110608X
• ISBN 13: 9780531106082
• Binding: Library Binding