21st Century Policing

Trust between law enforcement agencies and the people they protect and serve is essential in a democracy. It is key to the stability of our communities, the integrity of our criminal justice system, and the safe and effective delivery of policing services.

On December 18, 2014, President Barack Obama signed an executive order establishing the Task Force on 21st Century Policing. The president charged the task force with identifying best practices, offering recommendations on how policing practices can help to promote effective crime reduction while building public trust.

Six pillars

The Task Force on 21st Century Policing recommendations, each with action items, are organized around six main topic areas or “pillars.” The six pillars are:

• Pillar 1 — Building trust and legitimacy
• Pillar 2 — Policy and oversight
• Pillar 3 — Technology and social media
• Pillar 4 — Community policing and crime reduction
• Pillar 5 — Officer training and education
• Pillar 6 — Officer safety and wellness

Download the Final Report of The President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing (published May 2015)