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Friday 18 April 2014

Peelian Principles: Foundation of Modern Policing

The police exist to prevent crime and disorder. Any action they take must be a demonstration of impartial service to the law, not as catering to public opinion. Police only resort to physical force when less-violent avenues like persuasion and warning prove futile. The police is put to the test not when there's a crime but when there isn't.

These are some of the principles police in the U.K. take to heart, popularly known in policing as the Peelian Principles. Created by Sir Robert Peel, known as the "father of modern policing," the nine principles describe what a modern police force should be and how they should work. These principles are also being used by police forces around the world.

Several Peelian Principles take centre stage on the discussion of various policing issues like the use of force. Even though a police officer has tried but failed to sway a person into surrender, the word "tried" comes into question. Did the officer try enough, as in "made any effort?" More importantly, did the officer really exhaust all less-violent methods?

Nevertheless, the Peelian Principles serve as a basis for development of policing doctrines on keeping the peace. Police forces develop tactics on when the use of force is justified and to bring their man down using non-lethal means. The Peelian Principles, after all, highlight the importance of gaining public trust.

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