Police Entrance Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes community policing?

1. Focusing on crime rates rather than community relationships

2. Engaging with citizens to build strong partnerships for crime prevention

3. Utilizing technology solely for surveillance of the community

4. Having a single officer patrol multiple districts

The correct answer is: Engaging with citizens to build strong partnerships for crime prevention

Community policing is best described by engaging with citizens to build strong partnerships for crime prevention. This approach emphasizes collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community to identify and solve problems related to crime and disorder. By fostering trust and open communication with community members, officers can gain valuable insight into local issues and work proactively to address concerns before they escalate into more serious problems. Such partnerships not only enhance public safety but also promote community empowerment and involvement in the policing process. The other options do not embody the core principles of community policing. While focusing on crime rates can be an aspect of policing, it does not reflect the relational and preventative nature of community policing. Utilizing technology solely for surveillance signifies a more traditional top-down approach to law enforcement rather than the collaborative spirit of community engagement. Lastly, having a single officer patrol multiple districts does not encourage the close community ties that are foundational to community policing, as effective community policing requires officers to build relationships within specific neighborhoods rather than spreading their attention across larger, less connected areas.