Police Powers and Accountability

The traditional view of the police's role was challenged in the early 1980s, leading to a public debate about policing, police powers, and accountability. This book examines critical issues in contemporary policing, focusing on the constitutional framework, police complaints procedure, and the 1984 Police and Criminal Evidence Act.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The conventional perception of the police's function experienced a growing onslaught in the early 1980s. The tumultuous events of 1981 and the Scarman Inquiry ignited a widespread public discourse on policing, police powers, and accountability. It became evident that the police extended beyond mere law enforcement. They also played a pivotal role in shaping policy decisions regarding the enforcement of laws, determining the appropriate timing and targets for enforcement, and exercising discretionary authority. The central focus of this debate revolved around the control and regulation of this discretionary power.

Originally released in 1986, this comprehensive book delves into these critical aspects of contemporary policing. It primarily focuses on the legal aspects of policing, encompassing topics typically covered in law and law-related courses. The book examines the constitutional framework within which the police operate, shedding light on the legal principles and regulations governing their actions. It explores the intricate process of police complaints and the diverse range of police powers, considering them within the broader political context of the time. Throughout the book, the 1984 Police and Criminal Evidence Act is analyzed in depth, examining its profound impact on both the police and the public.

The riots of 1981 and the Scarman Inquiry served as a catalyst for profound introspection and transformative change in the realm of policing. They sparked a nationwide debate that challenged the traditional understanding of the police's role and emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and community engagement. The book's examination of these critical issues remains relevant and valuable to this day, providing a comprehensive analysis of the past and shaping a more informed perspective on the future of policing.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032418988