NCJ Number
82860
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 55 Issue: 2 Dated: (April-July 1982) Pages: 113-124
Date Published
1982
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The organization of French police forces is discussed, with particular attention to the structure, functions, and equipment of the Gendarmerie.
Abstract
France has two national police forces -- the 108,000-member Police Nationale and the 82,938-member Gendarmerie Nationale. The latter polices the countryside and the small towns, and the former operates in large urban centers. The Gendarmerie evolved as a military force, followed by the establishment of the Police Nationale in service to civilian authorities. Civilian authorities may not call upon the services of the Gendarmerie without a formal request for assistance. The two forces closely cooperate, especially in criminal investigations. France's 96 departments (counties) are subdivided into arrondissements, where the Gendarmerie companies are stationed. Companies are made up of brigades, which vary in number from 7 to 20, depending on population density. Directly under the company commander are a headquarters group, the investigation section, and the surveillance and intervention platoon (can be used to reinforce the work of brigades). Gendarmes are housed rent-free in barracks with their families and are available 24 hours a day. Brigade commanders are responsible for public order within their area and for the gathering and collation of potentially useful criminal information, for the investigation of all crimes and for the welfare of their men and families. They also organize on-the-job training of newly appointed Gendarmes and promote cooperation with other brigades and neighboring Police Nationale units. Gendarmes patrol their beats in Renault 4L cars and customized Renault Estafette vans, which are used as mobile command posts. Gendarmes carry automatic pistols; submachine guns may be issued for special missions. An effort is being made to establish a sophisticated nationwide network of radio communications, using the latest telex and computer terminals. Organization charts and 13 notes are provided.