Just as the tythings were grouped into hundreds, the hundreds were grouped into shires, which are similar to counties today. That is, the constable was the first official with law enforcement responsibility greater than simply helping one’s neighbor. Ten tythings were grouped into a hundred, directed by a constable (appointed by the local nobleman), who in effect became the first policeman. If any member of the tything failed to perform his required duties, all members of the group would be levied severe fines. Tythingmen were required to hold suspects in custody while they were awaiting trial and to make regular appearances in court to present information on wrong doing by members of their own or other tythings. This system was ”obligatory” in nature, in that tythingmen were not paid salaries for their work but were required by law to carry out certain duties (Klockars 1985, 21). Each person was pledged to help protect fellow citizens and, in turn, would be protected. Each tything was sworn to apprehend and deliver to court any of its members who committed a crime. This model of law enforcement is known as ”kin police”-individuals were considered responsible for their ”kin” (relatives) and followed the adage, ”I am my brother’s keeper.” Slowly this model developed into a more formalized ”communitarian,” or community-based, police system.Īfter the Norman Conquest of 1066, a community model was established, which was called frankpledge this system required that every male above the age of twelve form a group with nine of his neighbors, called a tything (a group of ten). Because no police officers existed, individuals used state-sanctioned force to maintain social control. Each citizen was held responsible for aiding neighbors who might be victims of outlaws and thieves. Beginning at about 900 c.E., the role of law enforcement was placed in the hands of the common, everyday citizen. Ideas about police and the community, crime prevention, the posse, constables, and sheriffs developed from English law enforcement. The origins of modern policing in the United States are linked directly to its English heritage. This article examines the history of American policing, from its English heritage to the community policing movement of the latter part of the twentieth century.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |