What is the primary intention behind community policing?

The primary intention behind community policing is to build positive relationships with the community. This approach emphasizes collaboration between the police and citizens to identify and solve problems related to crime and social disorder. By fostering trust and open communication, community policing encourages community members to engage with law enforcement, share information, and work together to enhance public safety.

This relationship-building aspect is fundamental because it shifts the focus from merely enforcing the law to addressing the underlying issues contributing to crime. Community policing seeks to empower individuals within neighborhoods, promoting a sense of ownership and responsibility for their environment. When the community feels supported and understands that the police are partners, there is often an increase in cooperation, which can lead to effective crime prevention.