Development of The Police

By the end of this lesson you will... Be able to Explain the ways in which law enforcement changed from the Eighteenth century onwards. Be able analyse the changes and continuities within law enforcement during this period.

How did a Police force develop? Before C19th there were very few developments. Law and order based on practices going back to Middle Ages. Justices of the Peace appointed by crown from1361 onwards, helped by constables and watchmen. As population increased so did number of crimes. More officials added – Bow Street Runners apptd by Bow Street Magistrates and Thames Valley Police set up in 1800. However, if there were any major disturbances in London then army had to be called. Outside capital had to rely on ‘yeomanry’ and ‘militia’.

The Need for Change Start of C19th – law and order under constant threat. Number of disturbances still fresh in mind – Gordon Riots, Peterloo Massacre, Luddites. All raised q’s about ability of Yeomanry. More instances of Homicide, robbery, theft and burglary as a result of the Industrial Revolution.

Beginning of the Metropolitan Police 1829 – set up to cover London area by Home Secretary Robert Peel who thought existing methods of law and order were inadequate. Under control of 2 commissioners, reported to Home Secretary and based at Scotland yard. Divided into 17 divisions, led by Superintendant, had 4 inspectors, and 144 constables. London now policed by 3000 men called ‘Bobbies’ or ‘Peelers’. Uniform kept as different to the military as possible. Was much opposition at first but eventually gained more respect.

Early achievements were mixed. Recruits were often of poor quality, some sacked for being drunk. Many gangs moved out of London which looked good for the police but they set up in the counties and boroughs instead.

Extension of the Police Force Municipal Corporations Act 1835: let boroughs set up watch committees to control a police force. 1839 County Police Act – brought counties into new network. Process patchy – 1835 and 39 Acts gave powers to do things but it wasn’t compulsory. 1856 County Borough Police Act – compulsory for all counties and boroughs to have a police force. Forces v. different in size and efficiency. No more major changes for another century.

Functions of the Police Most important function – control of crime. Detective dept set up at Scotland yard in 1842. Communications sped up with telegraph in 1867. Criminal Investigation Dept set up in 1878. Records kept in each police station, Scotland yard kept details on most notorious criminals. Also to control civil disturbances and riots.

Conditions in the Police force Major problem in C19th was lack of prestige and status given to police. In 1876 earned 29s. And 6d. (just under £1.50) a week. Up to 12 hours patrolling on foot. Bicycles used after 1890. Whistles used to attract attention.

How far has policing changed? TOTAL CHANGE How far has policing changed? NO CHANGE