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Policing And Technology : Major Problems And Issues

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Policing and Technology:
Major Problems and Issues

Edgar Marcelo
December 13, 2014

Technology plays a big part in our society today. From computers to cell phones and other devices, technology is involved in almost every facet of our lives. Law enforcement agencies, not only in the United States, but all over the world have adapted new gadgets and forms of technology to assist in their everyday law enforcement activities. The problem with using too much technology is that it might interfere with the daily duties of a police officer, as far as interacting with the public or using physical force. Will law enforcement depend entirely on technology and lose its touch with the community? There are many discrepancies and concerns that stem from technology within law enforcement. Lack of Community Policing: Militarization of Police
Throughout the years police have begun to use military style weapons and gadgets to respond to riots and crowd control. The average police officer’s uniform which consists of a badge, a firearm and a blue uniform has transformed into a “military style uniform”. Police officer’s combat gear includes a gas mask, tear gas , flash bang grenades and many more weapons and gadgets used mainly overseas during war. Recent protests in Missouri over the death of Mike Brown have resulted in police responding with such tactical gear, diminishing the relationship police officers have with the community. Josh Levs, who is a reporter for CNN stated,

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