Community relations are based upon the principle that in a democratic society the police are an integral and indivisible element of the public they serve. Community relations are manifested by positive interaction between the people and the police and it represents their unity and common purpose.
A system of law enforcement is not superimposed upon an unwilling public in a free society; the law is created by the people themselves to control the behavior of those who would seek to interfere with the community welfare and existence.
While the primary responsibility for the enforcement of the law lies with the people, the complexities of modern society and the inability of the people to personally cope with crime has required that they create the police service to assist in maintaining social order. The police represent only a portion of the total resources expended by the public to this end; however, this effort, frequently being restrictive of individual freedom, brings the police into contact with members of the public under circumstances which have a far-reaching impact upon the lives of the affected individuals. A person's encounter with the police can be a very frightening and emotionally painful experience, and under these circumstances, the risk is a challenge intrinsic in each public contact by the department.
The department must strive for the establishment of a climate where an officer may perform duties with the acceptance, understanding, and approval of the public. Additionally, the willing and practiced participation of the people in enforcing the law is essential for the preservation of freedom.
Updated January 14, 2019