The county sheriff as a distinctive policing modality
Abstract
Argues that US county‐level policing is distinct from municipal policing. Examines differences between them in terms of historical, political, geographical, functional, organizational and regional variations. Suggests how research might be focused to explicate these differences. In particular, presents the idea of a militia, a group organized out of and by a community for its own protection. Contrasts this with the professional paramilitary model associated with large municipal departments. Points out that most police agencies are not large or urban. The greater part of the USA is policed by approximately 3,000 county‐level agencies. Proposes the militia model as a template for further research.
Keywords
Citation
Falcone, D.N. and Wells, L.E. (1995), "The county sheriff as a distinctive policing modality", American Journal of Police, Vol. 14 No. 3/4, pp. 123-149. https://doi.org/10.1108/07358549510111983
Publisher
:MCB UP Ltd
Copyright © 1995, MCB UP Limited