Existing comment:
The First Officers
Law enforcement of the people, by the people, for the people.
Policing in the colonies reflected the traditions of settlers. The Spanish had alguacils, the Dutch schout fiscals and a rattle watch, the English constables, sheriffs, and a nightwatch. As the colonies grew and formed a nation, law enforcement grew and changed with them. But it always remained a community endeavor, as police enforced the laws and ordinances set forth by federal legislators and local politicians. Early police officers were entrusted to preserve social order and communal norms, ensure health and safety, and control illegal activity. |