After explaining the elements of community prosecution, this paper compares traditional prosecution models with the community prosecution model and then discusses the continuum, organization, and functions of community prosecution.
The core operational elements of community prosecution are a proactive approach to crime; a defined target area; an emphasis on problem-solving, public safety, and quality of life; partnerships between the prosecutor, the community, law enforcement, and others in addressing crime and disorder; and the use of varied enforcement methods. Community prosecution differs from the traditional case-processing model in aiming to tailor the prosecutor's and the criminal justice system's response to crime to the local jurisdiction's needs. In presenting a continuum for community prosecution, the paper discusses the program phase, which covers the first 2 years; the strategy phase, which encompasses years 3 to 5, and the philosophical stage, which characterizes years 6 and beyond. This final implementation stage features significant organization, managerial, and cultural changes. The section on organizational change addresses organizational structure, management issues, and staffing. The discussion of functional change associated with community prosecution focuses on the use of traditional and nontraditional sanctions, the establishment of prevention and diversion programs as well as alternatives to incarceration, partnerships with the community and appropriate agencies, and case processing. 22 references