NCJ Number
139179
Date Published
1992
Length
85 pages
Annotation
This futures study attempts to determine what downsizing techniques can be used to bring about the most desired outcome for a mid-sized law enforcement agency.
Abstract
Five significant trends were forecasted to have an impact on the issue of downsizing municipal California law enforcement in the next 8 years: level of available revenue, service demands by the community, consolidation of law enforcement services, computer technology which results in staff reduction, and private contracting of law enforcement services. Events that also could have an impact on downsizing include legislated consolidation of services, privately owned police departments, individual officer contracts, the declaration of user fees as illegal, and voter approval of tax increases. A strategic plan develops policy recommendations which adopt an entrepreneurial approach to law enforcement. Downsizing emerges as a viable alternative for mid-sized law enforcement agencies that face fiscal constraints. 22 footnotes, 8 references, and 14 appendixes