Developing Effective Community Policing Programs through a Therapeutic Jurisprudence Model

This article suggests that there is a growing disconnect between the practice of community policing and the scientific examination and evaluation of the concept. Specifically, it is suggested that there is little empirical evidence available regarding the effectiveness of community policing initiatives and that, as a result, concerns have been raised regarding the development of these programs. The major challenges to developing community policing programs are reviewed and a therapeutic jurisprudence model is proposed as guidance for the development of future programs.