Posted by ipl.org
In 1829, as an alternative to military intervention and private security to keep law and order, Sir Robert Peel established nine principles of law enforcement, the so called “Peelian Principles.”

 

 

These principles define the basic mission of the police: keeping law and order, reinforcing the sense of safety, and preventing crime.

Today, the principles still guide police work and form the basis for a relationship of trust between the police and the communities it serves.

Modern policing is based on refraining from unnecessary repressive actions and on establishing a close relationship with the community in which the police operates; a close analysis of the principles demonstrate how they translate into modern policing.

In reviewing Peel 's Principles of law enforcement all nine principles remain largely at the core of modern policing. The first principle explains the basic mission and role of the police “to prevent crime and disorder.” This principle is still valid today as law enforcement officers are still actively engaged in preventing crime and maintaining order in the community.