Introduction
In recent years, Baltimore, Maryland, has consistently ranked among the cities with the most significant levels of violence in the United States. To address this issue, community-oriented policing efforts have been implemented in the city. However, it is essential to review these strategies critically and suggest actions that may improve their efficiency. Examining the intersectional factors that contribute to the violence in Baltimore can provide insight into how to address this issue more effectively.
Discussion
It is undeniable that the population of Baltimore is diverse and that not everyone is treated equally by the police. The research examined the perceptions of disorder in high-crime street segments among Black and white residents in Baltimore (Hinkle et al., 2022). The study found significant differences in how Black and white residents perceived disorder, with Black residents reporting higher levels of disorder in their street segments. This suggests that the community-oriented policing efforts in Baltimore may not be effectively addressing the concerns of all residents, particularly those in communities of color.
Non-fatal shootings could be the consequence of structural racism, as evidenced by the high rates of violence against Black individuals in Baltimore, Maryland. The study conducted by Uzzi et al. analyzed the intersectional effects of historical and contemporary structural racism on non-fatal shootings in Baltimore (2022). The study found significant disparities in non-fatal shootings between Black and white residents, with Black residents disproportionately affected by the violence in the city. The study also illustrated that neighborhoods with a history of redlining and disinvestment were more likely to experience non-fatal shootings.
These studies highlight the need for community-oriented policing efforts in Baltimore to address the specific concerns and experiences of communities of color. One potential action that could improve the efficiency of these efforts is to increase community engagement and participation in the development and implementation of policing strategies. This could be accomplished by forming community policing councils, which would provide a forum for community members to voice their concerns and offer input on policing strategies. In addition, it would be beneficial to invest in programs that address the underlying social and economic issues that contribute to violence in Baltimore, such as poverty and unemployment.
Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge and address the structural racism that contributes to the high rate of violence in Baltimore’s communities of color. This can be accomplished by implementing community policing strategies that are culturally responsive and that take into account the unique experiences and challenges faced by the residents in these communities. It is crucial to ensure that these strategies are developed and implemented in partnership with community members, as their perspectives and insights are vital in creating effective and inclusive solutions to the issues at hand. Moreover, it is necessary to prioritize the hiring of diverse law enforcement officers who can better understand and connect with the communities they serve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while community-oriented policing efforts have been implemented in Baltimore, it is essential to review these strategies critically and suggest actions that may improve their efficiency. It includes increasing community engagement and participation in developing and implementing policing strategies, investing in programs that address underlying social and economic issues, and acknowledging and addressing historical and contemporary structural racism. By taking these steps, it is possible to reduce violence and create a safer Baltimore for all residents.
References
Hinkle, J. C., White, C., Weisburd, D., & Kuen, K. (2022). Disorder in the eye of the beholder: Black and white residents’ perceptions of disorder on high‐crime street segments. Criminology &Amp; Public Policy. Web.
Uzzi, M., Aune, K. T., Marineau, L., Jones, F. K., Dean, L. T., Jackson, J. W., & Latkin, C. A. (2022). An intersectional analysis of historical and contemporary structural racism on non-fatal shootings in Baltimore, Maryland. Injury Prevention, 29(1), 85–90. Web.