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Convinced of its efficacy, Henry argued that CompStat represents “a revolutionary method of police management…and although it has been adopted and practiced in the NYPD and a few other municipal police agencies,” he suggested that it will inevitably become the “standard practice across the landscape of American police management” (p. 15).
Social Paradigm Shifts
Despite the significant contributions associated with community policing, its emergence has been accompanied by many challenges (Glensor, Correia, & Peak, 2000). Its implementation requires a steadfast commitment and dedication on the part of the police and community, recognizing that multidimensional changes need to occur. As Stevens (2003) adeptly observed, “[the philosophy of] community policing and the role of police in the United States is largely affected by changing demographics of the American community,” which is further complicated by “advances in technology, sophistication of criminal activities, uncertainties about new responsibilities mandated by law, a due process revolution, and most recently, terrorist attacks on the United States” (p. 2). Indeed, these and many other changes in the fabric of society underscore the importance of building meaningful and comprehensive partnerships with the community. Decidedly, embracing the philosophy and practices associated with community policing represents a further shift away from the mindset of the reform era, one in which the police were—by both design and default—a quasi-militaristic and autocratic force that subscribed to a more prescriptive and law enforcement–oriented role. While traditional policing practices have been characteristically reactive in nature, that is, responding to calls for service,