Define "community policing."

Community policing is best defined as a strategy that emphasizes building relations between police and the community. This approach recognizes that effective crime control and the prevention of criminal activity rely heavily on community engagement and cooperation.

In community policing, law enforcement officers work collaboratively with community members to identify and solve issues that contribute to crime and social disorder. This involves proactive measures, such as community meetings, establishing partnerships with local organizations, and promoting transparency in police operations. By fostering mutual trust and understanding, community policing aims to enhance the quality of life for residents while ensuring that the police are seen as integral members of the community rather than just enforcers of the law.

This contrasts with tactics that may focus solely on aggressive crime prevention, increasing police presence in certain areas without community involvement, or specific training programs. Community policing is distinctive for its holistic approach that prioritizes communication, trust-building, and shared responsibility between law enforcement and the community at large.