Community engagement has become a central focus of modern policing, particularly in the wake of high-profile incidents in recent years and growing public scrutiny. The traditional enforcement-centric model of policing is rapidly giving way to a community-centered approach. This shift is not just about improving public relations; it represents a fundamental reimagining of the role of the police in society.

Studies have shown that public trust is crucial to effective policing. A 2023 report by the Journal of Participatory Research Methods found that neighborhoods with higher levels of police-community trust experienced lower crime rates and greater cooperation in investigations.¹ These findings underscore the importance of cultivating strong, positive relationships between police and the communities they serve. However, accomplishing this requires more than policies or occasional outreach—it demands a shift in how we train officers, beginning on their very first day.
In order to access the rest of the article sign in with your IACP or Subscriber credentials.