There are several potential problems in the scenario created in the vignette. The first is the likelihood of resistance and failed support by the more seasoned and traditional thinking officers who believe that one has to go through the department by aging out the experience. Being young would symbolize a threat to security in the force. As a result, the best approach would be to reassure them of their relevance and significance in the police force. To accomplish this crucial outcome, a possible means is through the delegation of significant duties to such officers so that they feel relevant in the face of the upcoming changes.
A second problem to be anticipated that is parallel to the seniority complex mentioned above is the general belief that the hierarchy prescribes the senior officer to give orders to the letter on what is to be done. The idea of community policing hinges on the general input of all stakeholders. On the other hand, among the stakeholders, law enforcement officers are of key relevance as the primary implementers. Consequently, it would be prudent to reduce the power distance that plagues the forces by allowing officers throughout the ranks to have some discretion when making calls. Undoubtedly, this suggestion may not be well based on the traditional thinking of the ‘by the book’ officers. However, in as much as it continues to be implemented gradually, the officers shall continue to adapt.
The third problem that is anticipated in light of the new policies is that of financial resources to be dispatched to the station. Concerning the adoption of a COPPS strategy, of key importance in the improvement of the current situation would be the creation of new stations to decentralize the police locations. However, with this issue coming at a time when police officers have already suffered budget cuts and layoffs, it may hinder its acceptance among the more seasoned officers who may feel that their colleagues’ jobs should be reinstated first in the event of disbursement of resources. The most prudent way of handling this case is by educating such officers on the long-term rewards of adopting a COPPS strategy, as it would include the creation of even more employment opportunities since the area enjoys better safety, with investors returning to the city.