Policing styles are reflected in law enforcement agencies’ methods, deci- sions, and priorities. Based on an ethnographic study of police work in two major French metropolitan areas, this article identifies the style of policing enforced in France in light of discretionary identity checks. Even though there are nuances based on the variety of police units, places, and watch commanders, the style of policing remains mostly proactive and confronta- tional, which is reflected in the multiplicity of units with an aggressive man- date. Identity checks are used to detect criminal activity, control the territo- ry, and assert police authority, especially when the latter is challenged.
Latest News
Doctoral and Early Career Training School 'Researching the Experiences of Police Stops' - Call for Expressions of Interest
We are beginning to learn more about the practice of stops and searches conducted in public spaces by police officers.…
Read moreIdentifying and tackling problematic or abusive forms of police selectivity.
An action research on the problematic practices and/or mechanisms of police district of Schaerbeek-Evere-St-Josse (PolBruNo). Carroll Tange and Sarah Van…
Read moreGeorge Floyd
Watching a police officer murder a man in full view is horrifying. We feel suffocated watching it – but it…
Read morePolstops partners at the ESC2019
Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about Polstops at the European Society of Criminology! Megan O’Neill will be chairing…
Read moreWould you like to know more?
Contact UsWant to take part of this Action?
How to join
COST Action COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) is a funding agency for research and innovation networks. Our Actions help connect research initiatives across Europe and enable scientists to grow their ideas by sharing them with their peers. This boosts their research, career and innovation.
Know more +