Group+1+Police+powers+&+reporting+crime

=Group 1: Police powers & reporting crime=

The role of the police is to investigate crimes, make arrests, interrogate suspects and gather evidence against the accused. Police then present the evidence for judgement in a court on behalf of the state either directly or through prosecution. The challenge for all communities is to balance the extent of powers required by police agaisnt the rights of ordinary citizens.
 * 1. Outline the role of police in investigating crime**

The main powers that police have in relation to crimes: - To detain and question suspects - To search property and seize evidence - To use reasonable force when/if necessary - To use particular technologies to assist with an investigation such as DNA samples - To arrest and interrogate suspects - To make a recommendation on whether or not bail should be granted
 * 2. Explain the main powers that police have in relation to crimes**

- The majority of police powers are outlined in the aw enforcement (powers and responsibilities) Act 2002 (NSW) - May occasionally be given extra powers in specific areas in order to combat particular threats or perceived - They can use force in the execution of their duty however sometimes the level of fore is contentious - An example of the inappropriate use of force by police is the use of taser guns - A Sydney man in 2010 was killed after being stunned by a taser when his primary offence was drinking, which could have been settled with a fine - It is an international law enforcement standard and expectation that police use minimum force to resolve a dispute
 * 3. Can police use force against others in the execution of their duty? Can you find an example of where police use of force has been controversial?**

Citizens have a very crucial role to play in the criminal justice system by reporting crime. Community programs have been created to encourage the people of the public to report information about criminal activity. These programs can help police to promote community participation and awareness of the importance in solving crimes. An example of a program is Crime Stoppers, that is available nationally throughout Australia, that encourages citizens of society to report any suspicious information regarding anything that could lead to help manage unsolved crimes or unknown offences.
 * 4. Outline the role that the public play in reporting crime**

-No, all crimes are not reported. 25% of all sexual offences are not reported, meaning that a quarter are never brought to the attention of police or the criminal justice system. This can be due to the victim feeling fearful that the offender may harm them again, or simply as some victims do not know how or find it difficult to access the law, because of barriers such as language or economic costs.
 * 5. Are all crimes reported? Use statistics to support your answer**

-People are reluctant to become involved or have to appear a a witness - Fear of the consequence if the crime is reported - Inability to report the crime - The dispute has already been settled with the offender such as a brawl or theft by a person know to the victim - Perceived time or administrative burden of reporting a crime
 * 6. Explain why many crimes are under-reported.**