Police Leadership for the 21st Century: Reflections on Research and Innovation

• NCJ Number: 164501
• Author(s): J. Travis
• Date Published: January 1995
• Length: 19 pages
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored

Annotation

This conference presentation by the Director of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) focused on police leadership for the 21st century and on the need to advance knowledge and professionalism in policing.

Abstract

Since its inception, the NIJ has supported the development of advanced technology to meet criminal justice needs, for example, lightweight body armor to protect police officers and others. This technology has saved the lives of more than 1,500 police officers since it was introduced. The NIJ has also established National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Centers, regional centers that provide information about police equipment, standards, testing, and database development. Funding has also been provided to adapt military technologies to domestic law enforcement use. The NIJ has focused on innovative local programs that merit consideration by other jurisdictions and has established a computerized database of antiviolence programs and an international clearinghouse of criminal justice information. The core function of the NIJ, however, involves research and evaluation, and the emphasis is on effective policing and crime control strategies. Provisions of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 are noted, along with NIJ research priorities.