Functions of Policing

Within a police department, the largest division is usually the patrol division. They are responsible for performing the primary police mission. The officers on patrol work 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. This is evident if you have ever called the police at 3:00 AM. They are really the only government entity that will respond 24 hours a day to provide services. This is why the patrol units in a police department are considered the backbone of the department. However, investigations are also an important part of police work. Police officers who conduct investigations are usually referred to as detectives. They are responsible for solving reported crimes and usually get the case after the patrol division takes the initial report.

Discuss the role of the patrol division in a police department and the investigative division in a police department. Which role do you think is more important? Explain in detail each of these functions of policing.