The-US-Policing-System-An-Overview 5

1.

The U.S. Policing System: An
Overview
The U.S. policing system is a decentralized network. It includes over 18,000
law enforcement agencies. These agencies operate at the federal, state,
county, and municipal levels. They each have varied jurisdictions and
responsibilities.

2.

Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
FBI
DEA
ATF
ICE
Focuses on national security
Enforces drug trafficking
Deals with firearms,
Focuses on immigration
and counterterrorism. It also
laws with a budget of $3.4B.
explosives, and arson with a
enforcement. Its budget is
$1.6B budget.
$8.0B.
handles cybercrime with a
$11.3B budget.

3.

State Law Enforcement
Agencies
1
3
State Police
2
Highway Patrol
Jurisdiction throughout the
Enforces traffic laws and
state. They often assist local
responds to emergencies
agencies.
across the state.
Investigative Agencies
Conduct criminal investigations and support local law enforcement.

4.

Local Law Enforcement
Agencies
County Sheriffs
Municipal Police
Enforce laws and manage
Maintain order and respond to
corrections within the county.
crimes within city limits.
Small Agencies
Most U.S. agencies have fewer than 25 sworn officers.

5.

Police Powers and Authority
Authority to enforce
Fourth Amendment
Qualified immunity:
laws, make arrests,
protections: search
legal protection from
and conduct searches.
warrants and probable
liability in certain
cause.
situations.

6.

Training and Standards
Basic Training
1
Academies range from 16 weeks to 6 months.
2
In-Service Training
Ongoing requirements for skill maintenance.
De-escalation
Increasing emphasis on non-lethal techniques.
3

7.

Challenges and Reforms
Police Brutality
Addressing excessive force incidents.
Racial Bias
Combating profiling and discriminatory practices.
Accountability
Enhancing transparency and oversight.

8.

Future Trends in US Policing
Technology
1
Body cameras and facial recognition.
Mental Health
Emphasis on officer wellness.
Data
4
2
Predictive analytics and mapping.
Community
3
Focus on relations and de-escalation.