Police are public service organizations that provide emergency response to criminal and non-criminal incidents, including fires; traffic control; patrol; and management of detention facilities. They may also be responsible for the enforcement of laws related to property, such as the registration and licensing of vehicles; protection of officials, government buildings and other public spaces; and the search of persons. In addition, some police departments are staffed by specialized officers who serve in a specific function such as drug enforcement or homicide investigation.
Many police officers are highly trained professionals, but they can still have strong impulses that must be channeled to meet their duties. This is why it is important to understand the role of police psychology and the ways that officers deal with stress. It is also important to know what you can do if you encounter a police officer who you believe is aggressive or overly-aggressive.
Some departments use a “blue-collar” approach to policing, emphasizing service functions and focusing on communities with low crime rates and high proportions of blue-collar, mixed ethnic/racial population. This style of policing can be controversial, with critics saying that it allows police to over-look certain offenses in the name of maintaining order.
When speaking to a police officer, remain calm and respectful. Remember that you have the right to refuse to answer questions other than your name and current activities, and you can always decline a request for a search citing your Miranda rights.