The U.S. Department of Justice's Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) examines key areas for community policing. These areas include de-escalation; crisis intervention; first-line supervisors; early intervention systems; internal affairs; recruitment, hiring, promotion, and retention; and data systems. New and seasoned law enforcement executives as well as the personnel who work for chiefs and sheriffs have a responsibility to engage in ongoing, collaborative, and sincere efforts to improve the outreach and service to their communities. Law enforcement leaders should engage in dialogue as they assess the particular needs and areas of concern for the communities they serve and should work collaboratively to develop and implement a strategic plan. The guide was developed in collaboration with experts and practitioners from across the country and provides best and promising practices grounded in academic research and practical experience suitable for agencies of all sizes. In order to address the complex relationship among each of these issues, the guide provides actionable checklists to start a conversation about the actions law enforcement agencies can take to positively affect the quality of life and safety for every member of the community.
