Sewell, James D. : Florida Department of Law Enforcement
Egger, Steven A. : University of Illinois, Springfield
Summary
Utilizing a unique debate format, this criminal justice book addresses some of the most controversial, topical
issues in policing today. Drawing on previously unpublished materials, the book includes contributions by well
known authors from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, all with expertise in their particular topic and
an enthusiasm for debating that is guaranteed to hold reader interest. The unique "Yes/No/Rejoinder"
format lets the reader examine both sides of each issue without researching additional sources.
Part I discusses the legal framework in which police operate; topics include interpretation of the Fourth Amendment,
civil forfeiture, a police officer bill of rights, and juvenile curfews. Part II looks at police personnel practices,
including education and contracts. Part III asks questions about the police organization, including its paramilitary
structure, the existence of a subculture, and the effectiveness of pursuits. In Part IV community policing issues
are covered, including the role of citizen review boards and the media.
For anyone interested in hot topics and current issues in law enforcement.
Table of Contents
Dedication.
Foreword.
Introduction.
I. CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES: THE POLICE AND OUR LEGAL FRAMEWORK.
1. The Changing Fourth Amendment: An Inevitable Evolution or an Unfortunate Devolution?
An Inevitable Evolution, Paula C. Coffman.
An Unfortunate Devolution, Mark R. Brown.
2. Civil Forfeiture in Law Enforcement: An Effective Tool or Cash Register Justice?
An Effective Tool, Carl W. Hawkins, Jr.
Cash Register Justice, Thomas E. Payne.
3. A Police Officer's Bill of Rights: A Needed Protection for Cops?
Yes, Hal Johnson.
No, Michael Scott.
4. Are Juvenile Curfews a Legal and Effective Way to Reduce Juvenile Crime?
Yes, Lee Freeman O'Brien.
No, Paul Joseph.
II. CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES: POLICE PERSONNEL PRACTICES.
5. Should a College Degree Be Required for Today's Law Enforcement Officer?
Yes, Michael J. Palmiotto.
No, Max L. Bromley.
6. College-Educated Cops: Is the Time Now?
Yes, Randall L. Garner.
No, R. Lynn.
7. Police Executive Contracts: Are They a Foundation for Successful Tenure?
Yes, Gerald L. Williams and Sutham Cheurprakobkit.
No, William E. Kirchoff.
III. CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES: THE POLICE ORGANIZATION.
8. Are Ethical Problems in Policing a Function of Poor Organizational Communications?
Yes, Susan Braunstein.
No, Mitchell L. Tyre.
9. Is It Time to Change Law Enforcement's Paramilitary Structure?
Yes, Carol E. Rasor.
No, Sheldon F. Greenberg.
10. Is There a Distinct Subculture in American Policing?
Yes, Susan L. Sayles.
No, James S. Albritton.
11. Is It Time for Police Agencies to Eliminate Pursuits?
Yes, Michael S. McCampbell
No, Sheldon F. Greenberg.
IV. CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES: POLICING OUR COMMUNITIES.
12. Do We Need a War on Crime or Peace in the 'Hood?
War on Crime, William G. Doerner.
Peace in the 'Hood, Gene Stephens.
13. Community Policing: A More Efficacious Police Response or Simply Inflated Promises?
A More Efficacious Response, David L. Carter.
Simply Inflated Promises, James S. Albritton.
14. Do Citizen Review Boards Provide a Needed Oversight of Police Practices?