Model of policing during which police derive their authority from powerful local politicians?

• A. Political Model
• B. Reform Model
• C. Community Model
• D. Professional Model

Answer: (A)

This question is about where police derive their authority from. In the political model, the police derive their authority from powerful local politicians and the political machine, so policing decisions and priorities often reflect political interests rather than independent professional standards or broad public needs. This arrangement can shape who gets attention, how enforcement is carried out, and how accountability is structured, sometimes at the expense of professional norms and public trust. The reform model centers on reducing political influence through professional standards and civilian oversight; the community model emphasizes partnerships with residents and problem-solving; the professional model stresses organizational efficiency, merit, and independence from political masters.