Police Legitimacy

The relationship between the police and community has seemed to deteriorate over the last few years. Some experts believe this from not communicating effectively with local communities. It can also stem from fairness shown in how the police department polices. In addition, media representation and social media also play a role in how the public perceives the police and the job they are doing. These factors can influence and change how the public perceives the police and the job they are doing. When the public sees the police as being just and fair, they are more likely to uphold the polices authority and view them as being legitimate. However, if the public believe the police are not acting in a fair manner and just in their actions, then the public will have little support for their authority (Bain, Robinson, & Conser, 2014). Public opinion and perceived actions of the police are what formulate if the public thinks the police are being fair or unfair. Legitimacy is only one part of how the public perceives police and perception of fairness and open communication also play an important role for police to effetely do their job (Bain, Robinson, & Conser, 2014). However, legitimacy seems to play a critical role in substantial
Along with the increased use, technology allows instant access to information and services which is the driving change in characteristics of the populace (Bain, Robinson, & Conser, 2014). This instant access can drive even more of a divide between police and the community and even further question the legitimacy of the police (Bain, Robinson, & Conser, 2014). With ease of access to information and media reporting negative new stories such as corruption can leave the community feeling police are not fair. This is why it is important for law enforcement agencies to take a proactive approach in using the media to their advantage and a source for positive