Summary
-
Policing is a largely abandoned area of interest in relation to restorative justice theory and practice. Most restorative justice advocates’ attention focuses on persons already processed in the justice system. For the offenders they seek alternative approaches to punishment and retribution, for the victims restoration. Policing has a fundamental role in the achievement of justice ideals and it may be implemented in ways that actualize restorative justice principles. We understand that policing certainly invokes the law to apprehend and cite lawbreakers, beginning the formal process of charging, prosecuting and trying. Police also engage in other behaviours that maintain order, provide emergency assistance for a host of social problems, promote safety, and prevent crime. Policy dictates police behaviour. It may eliminate or promote discretion, promote the interests of capital or community concerns, differentially target non-dominant groups or develop collective responses to solving problems. In ethos and practice there is compatibility between ideals of restorative justice and the practice of policing, however, practical constraints in police organization, state mandates and community democratic mechanisms challenge the ability of police to undertake restorative praxis. (excerpt)
Link: www.euforumrj.org/readingroom/Budapest/workshop9.pdf
6256
