Administrative Problems in Controlling the Exercise of Police Authority

Abstract

In this article, Mr. Goldstein draws upon his personal experience as an observer of police operations, and as an administrator in a large police agency, to examine some of the complex problems encountered in exerting control over police conduct. As a basis for his analysis, the author distinguishes the several forms of most commonly cited misconduct, noting the quite different problems which each presents. Often-ignored factors inherent in the nature of the police function that complicate review and control of police actions are described. Considering the effect which this range of problems and factors has in limiting the value of existing and proposed methods for exerting control from outside the police agency, the author concludes that improved control over police conduct is primarily dependent upon the willingness of a police administrator to exert tighter and more effective controls over his personnel.

Keywords: Policing, Police Authority, Police