CHAPTER-ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background of the Study

Community policing, at its core, represents a significant departure from traditional law
enforcement strategies. It's a dynamic paradigm anchored in the collaboration between
communities and law enforcement agencies, aiming to foster a safer and more secure
environment for all residents. This innovative approach underscores active citizen participation,
reimagining the role of the police from mere enforcers to partners in the community's overall
well-being. The concept emphasizes that sustainable safety and effective policing require joint
efforts, where communities are integral to the process of crime prevention and resolution
(Mulugeta and Kuraiew, 2017).

The global traction gained by community policing highlights its pivotal role in enhancing public
safety across diverse nations. Its adoption in various countries such as England, Singapore,
Canada, Israel, and Scandinavian nations by the turn of the century demonstrates its worldwide
acknowledgment as a promising policing model (Mulugeta et al., 2017).

Defining 'community' as a collective entity characterized by shared interests and locality, and
'policing' as a set of principles guiding societal actions, community policing fundamentally
involves strategically assigning police personnel to specific regions. This strategic deployment
aims to cultivate familiarity between law enforcement and local residents, fostering trust and
mutual understanding. A critical aspect of community policing lies in its emphasis on crime
prevention, echoing the United Nations' acknowledgment of prevention as the primary facet of
justice (United Nations document, 2004).

The historical origins of the term 'police' trace back to the Greek word 'Polis,' denoting the
governance of state safety, health, and order (Ehindero, 1998). While the formalization of 'police
force' is a relatively recent phenomenon, the concept of 'policing' as a societal measure for
protection and regulation of wrongful behavior has existed for centuries (Reiner, 2000; Alemika
& Chukwuma, 2005; Oluwaniyi, 2011).

In contrast to the traditional professional model, which vested sole responsibility for crime
control in the police, the paradigm of community policing acknowledges the multifaceted nature
of crime. It advocates for community involvement as essential in addressing the intricate social
issues intertwined with criminal activities. This approach transcends the conventional perception
of policing by encouraging collaboration between law enforcement and communities to resolve
not only crimes but also instill a sense of security, address disorder, and counter neighborhood
decay (Trojanowica and Bncquerous, 1990).

Despite varying interpretations of community policing, its essence lies in being an organizational
philosophy fostering partnerships, proactive problem-solving, and community engagement to
combat crime and its associated challenges (Kam, 2000).

Community policing represents a fundamental shift in law enforcement, restructuring the role of
the police and their relationship with communities. It champions a harmonious collaboration
between law enforcement agencies and community members, redefining the objective from mere
crime suppression to a joint effort aimed at societal well-being and safety (Dickson, 2007;
Ikuteyijo, 2009).

The role of community policing in crime prevention is pivotal, especially in the context of the
Kelem Wollega Zone, Dembidolo Town. Assessing the challenges and prospects associated with
implementing community policing strategies in this specific area is crucial to understanding its
effectiveness in preventing and addressing crimes. The application of community policing
principles and strategies within this context offers opportunities to evaluate its impact, identify
challenges unique to the area, and explore potential avenues for improving community safety and
reducing criminal activities. This assessment aims to shed light on the dynamics of community
involvement, law enforcement strategies, and their combined impact on crime prevention in the
Kelem Wollega Zone, Dembidolo Town.

1.2. Statement of the Problem

Crime poses multifaceted challenges with profound economic, health, and psychological
implications for individuals and society (O‘Block et al., 1991). As a response, law enforcement
agencies, particularly the police, stand as the frontline defenders against crime, tasked with the
critical functions of crime prevention and criminal apprehension (Morgan, 1996). The
foundational principle is that effective policing goes beyond traditional enforcement; it
necessitates a collaborative approach with the community.
In the context of Kelem Wollega, the effectiveness of community policing in addressing and
preventing crime faces notable challenges. While the police are visible and active, the impact of
their efforts is influenced by the degree of community engagement. Palmetto's assertion that
police success is contingent on community assistance resonates strongly, emphasizing the
essential role of the community in crime prevention (Palmetto, 2000). The Ethiopian
government's proclamation, emphasizing community participation in policing, underscores the
significance of a collective effort (Ethiopian Federal Police proclamation manual, 207/92).

Despite these directives, Kelem Wollega experiences distinctive challenges in the

implementation of community policing. Reports from the region, documented in the SDCP File
(2019 E, C), indicate issues such as low community participation and collaboration with the
police, instances of corruption among police officials, and a shortage of police forces. These
challenges are indicative of a complex interplay of factors hindering the effective execution of
community policing initiatives in the area.

Local studies conducted by Girma (2018), Gosa and Angesom (2017), Yeshiwas (2012),
Wondem and Muhammed (2016), Mulugeta and Mekuriaw (2017), Melese and Tesfaye (2019),
and Mesay (2014) offer valuable insights into the specific challenges faced by community
policing in Kelem Wollega. Girma's study highlights a lack of training on the concept of
community policing among officers, while Gosa and Angesom identify weak police and
community relations as contributing to crime activities. Yeshiwas observes suboptimal
implementation of community policing, and Wondem and Muhammed emphasize deficiencies in
awareness creation programs conducted by community policing officers.

Mulugeta and Mekuriaw identify issues such as less proactive prevention, weak collaborative
work, and a lack of a sense of ownership of security issues among community policing officers.
Melese and Tesfaye pinpoint factors such as lack of awareness, financial restrictions, corruption,
and a shortage of human resources hindering community policing operations. Mesay underscores
a disconnect between community policing implementation and its underlying philosophy.

This study seeks to assess the role of community policing in crime prevention in Kelem Wollega,
focusing on both the challenges encountered and the prospects for enhancement. By delving into
the specific dynamics of this region, the research aims to provide targeted recommendations to
improve the efficacy of community policing and contribute to the broader understanding of its
role in crime prevention.

1.3. Research Questions

1. To what extent does community participation influence the effectiveness of community

policing in Kelem Wollega?

2. What are the key challenges faced by community policing initiatives in Kelem Wollega,
and how do they affect crime prevention outcomes?

3. In what ways can community-police relations be strengthened to enhance crime

prevention in Kelem Wollega?

4. What prospects exist for enhancing community policing practices in Kelem Wollega,
considering local context and challenges?

1.4. Objectives of the Study

1.4.1. General Objective:

The main objective of this study is to assess the role of community policing in crime prevention
in Kelem Wollega and develop recommendations for its enhancement.

1.4.2. Specific Objectives:

1. To measure the level of community engagement with community policing initiatives in

Kelem Wollega:

2. To identify and analyze the key challenges faced by community policing initiatives in
Kelem Wollega:

3. To propose strategies for improving and strengthening community-police relations in

Kelem Wollega:

4. To investigate potential opportunities and prospects for enhancing community policing

practices in Kelem Wollega:
1.5. Significance of the Study:

This study holds significance in providing a nuanced understanding of the role of community
policing in Kelem Wollega, offering tailored insights that can inform policy and practice. By
examining the extent of community participation and identifying challenges faced by community
policing initiatives, the research aims to empower local communities, strengthen community-
police relations, and guide targeted training efforts for law enforcement. The study's localized
focus ensures that recommendations are contextually relevant, contributing to more effective and
sustainable crime prevention strategies in the region.

1.6. Scope/Delimitations:

The scope of this study is delimited to Kelem Wollega Zone Dembidollo City Administration,
concentrating on community policing dynamics, challenges, and prospects within the city. The
defined time frame centers on current practices, acknowledging that historical perspectives fall
outside the study's purview. While the study primarily examines law enforcement agencies' role,
it does not comprehensively cover other stakeholders. Additionally, the scope prioritizes a
general overview of crime prevention rather than an exhaustive analysis of specific crime types.
Recognizing language accessibility and cultural considerations, the study aims to provide
actionable insights within the outlined scope.
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1. Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of theories and concepts related to community policing,
aiming to establish a clear understanding of the foundational principles. A comprehensive
literature review, sourced from diverse outlets such as textbooks, the internet, and articles by
various scholars, explores topics including community policing principles and elements,
strategies, goals, theories, and the conceptual framework of community policing.

2.2. Definition of Community Policing

Various perspectives exist in academic and policy literature regarding the definition of
community policing. Ranging from Goldstein's broad view in 1990 that defines it as any activity
fostering closer police-community relations and responsiveness to citizens' needs, to more
limited interpretations like a return to the traditional 'bobby on the beat' (Waddington, 1984: 91).
Described as a paradigm (Kappeler and Gaines, 2011), a body of ideas (Brogden and Nijhar,
2005), and a system, style, and method of providing police service (Zwane, 1994), the chapter
acknowledges the diversity in definitions. It recognizes the impossibility of a universally agreed-
upon definition due to the cultural, legal, and organizational variations in community policing
cultures.

The diverse understandings stem from the broad application of the term in various policing
programs, including zero tolerance policing, intelligence-led policing, and service-oriented
approaches. Despite this diversity, some consensus exists on certain aspects. Community
policing is commonly referred to as both a philosophy (a way of thinking) and a strategy (a way
to execute the philosophy). This approach fosters collaboration between the police and the
community to address crime and disorder problems. The philosophy emphasizes a problem-
solving approach to public safety through community partnership, while the strategy component
involves the practical inclusion of community members in public safety efforts (Saferworld,
2006; Ferreira, 1996; Lanre and Olabisi, 2013).

Moreover, defining community policing is facilitated by understanding what it is not. Mike

Brogden suggests that community policing stands in contrast to military-style policing, policing
without public consent and accountability, reactive crime-fighting, and output-focused
professional efficiency (Brogden, 2005). Casey (2010) notes that community policing is often
associated with other descriptors and strategies, such as partnership, problem-solving, problem-
oriented, proactive, responsive, and reassurance.

2.3. Theoretical Framework

2.3.1. Functionalist Perspective

The functionalist or consensus approach, strongly endorsed by orthodox Western social

scientists, asserts that societal behavior is structured, with relationships governed by rules. This
perspective contends that social relationships are patterned and recurrent, emphasizing a value
consensus within society. Functionalist theorists, such as Emile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons,
maintain that societies thrive on stability, presuming that order is essential for social system
survival. The theory minimizes class conflicts, positing that adherence to norms and values
ensures a conflict-free society. In the context of the Lideta sub-city Police, the inefficiency and
poor performance of this integral part have implications for overall societal security.

2.3.2. Community Policing Principles and Elements

While community policing (COP) is not a universal solution, it addresses certain challenges in
modern policing. It is not an entirely novel concept, as some departments or officers claim to
have already practiced elements of COP. However, there are distinctive aspects of community
policing that are relatively new, and few agencies can assert complete adoption department-wide.
COP is not a rigid framework; rather, it comprises universally applicable principles and elements
that vary in implementation based on jurisdictional needs. The four major dimensions of COP
are the Philosophical, Strategic, Tactical, and Organizational Dimensions.

2.3.3. The Philosophical Dimension

Community policing is characterized as a new philosophy of policing, potentially constituting a

paradigm shift away from the professional model. The philosophical dimension encompasses
core ideas such as citizen input, broad function, and personal service. Citizen input underscores
the commitment to involving citizens in shaping police policies, reflecting democratic principles.
The broad function of COP sees policing as more than just law enforcement, involving
collaboration with residents to enhance neighborhood safety. This multifaceted approach
includes conflict resolution, victim assistance, accident prevention, problem-solving, fear
reduction, and crime reduction. To enhance citizen input, various techniques such as advisory
boards, surveys, and town meetings are employed. Broadening the function of policing is
implemented through personalized service initiatives, including officer business cards, pagers,
voice mail; recontact procedures, slogans, and symbols.

2.3.4. The Strategic Dimension

2.3.4.1. Re-Oriented Operations

The strategic dimension of community policing involves translating philosophical beliefs into
actionable operations. Key concepts, including re-oriented operations, bridge the gap between
underlying principles and the practical programs of community policing. Re-oriented operations
advocate for reduced reliance on patrol cars and increased emphasis on face-to-face interactions.
This shift aims to replace ineffective or isolating operational practices, incorporating various
methods such as foot patrols, walk-and-ride, directed patrol, and case screening.

2.3.4.2. Prevention Emphasis

Community policing underscores a prevention emphasis, recognizing citizens' preference for

preventing victimization rather than relying solely on rapid response and apprehension. While
many police departments allocate resources to crime prevention, community policing goes
further by emphasizing prevention as a significant aspect of every officer's role. Approaches to
prevention include situational crime prevention, crime prevention through environmental design,
community crime prevention, youth-oriented prevention, and business crime prevention.

2.3.4.3. Geographic Focus

Geographic focus is another strategic element of community policing. Methods to emphasize

geography include permanent beat assignments and lead officers. Designating a lead officer
ensures coordination and problem identification across different shifts, contributing to a more
effective approach to community policing.

2.3.5. The Tactical Dimension

The tactical dimension of community policing translates ideas and strategies into concrete
programs and behaviors. Positive interaction, partnerships, and problem-solving are three pivotal
tactical elements essential for turning community policing philosophy into actionable reality.

2.3.5.1. Positive Interaction

Acknowledging the inevitable negative interactions between officers and citizens, community
policing advocates for positive interactions whenever possible. These interactions foster
familiarity, trust, and confidence, benefiting both sides. Methods for positive interaction include
routine call handling, school-based policing, interactive patrol partnerships, citizen patrols, and
engagement with schools, code enforcement, nuisance abatement, landlords, tenants, and
problem-solving initiatives.

2.3.5.2. Partnerships

Partnerships are crucial in community policing, aiming not only to solve problems but also to
reduce fear, disorder, and neighborhood decay. Based on trust, these relationships challenge
individuals to accept responsibilities, enabling collaborative problem-solving efforts.
Partnerships involve joint activities to co-produce services and outcomes, fostering a sense of
compatibility between the police and the community.

2.3.5.3. Problem Solving

Problem-solving is a fundamental strategy in community policing, extending beyond traditional

crime-focused approaches. It involves constant meetings with communities and stakeholders to
identify and prioritize problems, addressing underlying conditions that contribute to crime
incidents. The effectiveness of problem-solving is measured by whether the identified problem is
resolved, shifting the focus from conventional metrics like arrest numbers.

2.3.6. The Organizational Dimension

Recognizing an organizational dimension surrounding community policing is crucial for

successful implementation. Police departments often consider changes in organization,
administration, management, and supervision to support community policing. Key organizational
elements include structure, management, and information.
2.3.6.1. Structure

Community policing advocates for restructuring police agencies to align with the philosophical,
strategic, and tactical elements. Traditional police organizational structures may not be
conducive to the discretion and creativity required for community policing. Restructuring options
include decentralization, flattening, de-specialization, team-based approaches, civilianization,
and mission-oriented strategies.

2.3.6.2. Management

Under community policing, police management plays a pivotal role in guiding rather than
dominating patrol officers' actions. Efficient responsiveness to patrol officers' demands is
essential for problem-solving in communities. Management determines guiding principles,
facilitating the conversion of agency philosophy into community policing strategies, and
evaluates their effectiveness.

2.3.6.3. Information

Information is a critical organizational element, supporting community policing implementation.

Performance appraisal, program evaluation, departmental assessment, information systems,
crime analysis, and geographic information systems (GIS) contribute to informed decision-
making and strategy effectiveness.

2.3.7. Strategies of Community Policing

To comprehensively describe community policing, three major strategies and their common
elements need identification: partnerships with the community, problem-solving, and
management structure.

2.3.7.1. Partnerships with the Community

Emphasizing collaboration, community policing advocates for partnerships with the community
to solve problems and reduce fear, disorder, and neighborhood decay. Trust-based relationships
enable parties to identify priorities and develop techniques for problem-solving, ensuring a
greater sense of police-community compatibility.
2.3.7.2. Problem Solving

A fundamental strategy in community policing, problem-solving extends beyond traditional

crime-focused approaches. Empowering the police and the community to adopt problem-solving
techniques, this strategy involves constant meetings with various communities and stakeholders.
The focus is on identifying and prioritizing problems and addressing underlying conditions
contributing to incidents of crime.

2.3.7.3. Management Structure

Community policing calls for a management structure that guides rather than dominates patrol
officers' actions. Management must ensure that officers have the necessary resources to solve
community problems. Efficient responsiveness to patrol officers' demands is crucial, determining
guiding principles to convert the agency's philosophy into community policing and evaluating
strategy effectiveness.

2.3.8. Goals of Community Policing

The goals of community policing, as outlined by the South African Police Service manual,
include exploring proactive initiatives to solve problems before they occur or escalate. The
overarching aim is to establish an active and equal partnership between the police and the public,
jointly determining and implementing solutions to crime and community safety issues.
Community policing goals align closely with the idea of identifying and addressing root causes,
reducing or eliminating crime, fostering increased feelings of safety, minimizing neighborhood
disorder, and enhancing customer satisfaction. The establishment and maintenance of trust are
key to creating effective community policing partnerships and improving relations between the
police and the community. The emphasis on keeping the peace by peaceful means underscores
the holistic approach of community policing in addressing the multifaceted aspects of public
safety.

2.3.9. Implementing Community Policing

Efficient implementation of community policing necessitates strategic planning and

comprehensive management restructuring at all levels within the police agency (BJA, 1994:27).
Successful implementation largely hinges upon both internal and external organizational
conditions. The implementation process involves:

 Significant operational, procedural and management practice changes within agencies.

 Thorough explanation and dissemination of the community policing concept to the entire
police organization, local political leadership, public and private agencies, and the wider
community.

 Clear understanding and alignment of roles for all involved parties.

 Time investment in training personnel, establishing community bonds, and creating a

robust support system.

 Methodical planning and timed execution of all phases to maximize effectiveness (Oliver,
2004:301).

 Overcoming resistance from entrenched police culture through strategic planning and
training efforts (Thibualt, Lynch, & McBrande, 2004:175).

2.3.10. Benefits of Community Policing

Community policing offers a range of benefits, emphasizing mutual advantages for both police
and the community. Scholars note several shared benefits:

 Enhanced problem-solving through a partnership approach (ZiemboVogl & Woods,

1996:1).

 Specific benefits for officers, such as increased job interest, pride, and belief in
effectiveness.

 Community-specific benefits, including a focus on prevention, customized service, and

improved local environments.

 Police-specific benefits, like improved community relations, increased officer

satisfaction, and a more effective use of personnel (Whisenand & Ferguson, 2002:207;
Dempsey, 1999:234).
2.3.11. Community-Specific Benefits

Communities engaged in community policing initiatives experience benefits including crime

prevention commitment, effective incident responses, improved police-community relations,
empowerment to address concerns, reduced problems, and a better local environment.

2.3.12. Police-Specific Benefits

Successfully implemented community policing benefits police organizations and officers by

acknowledging their functions, enhancing relationships with the community, increasing
perceived legitimacy, improving problem awareness, optimizing resource utilization, and
fostering alliances between police and the public.

2.3.13. Community and Police Shared Benefits

Community and police collaboration in community policing offers various shared benefits,
including decreased potential for conflict, crime rate reduction, improved information flow, and
better implementation of crime prevention activities through a shared goal (Whisenand &
Ferguson, 2002:207; Dempsey, 1999:234).

2.3.14. Obstacles of Implementing Community Policing

The implementation of community policing faces challenges both inside and outside police
organizations.

2.3.14.1. Inside Police Organization

The predominant challenge involves changing the entrenched culture of policing. Resistance to
adopting community policing arises due to varied perspectives on its effectiveness and the need
for comprehensive explanations by police departments.

2.3.15. Advantages and Disadvantages of Community Policing

Community policing fosters police-citizen collaboration to prevent crime and address

neighborhood issues proactively. It emphasizes crime prevention and community involvement,
strengthening community bonds and altering perceptions of policing. While effective, its success
relies heavily on community trust and long-term commitment, making it challenging to
implement and sustain without consistent community involvement.

2.4. Empirical Literature Review

Effective policing goes beyond traditional crime control and involves active citizen engagement
in the co-production of order maintenance (Moore, Trojanowicz, & Kelling, 1988). Research
indicates that dissatisfied citizens are less likely to provide crime-related information,
diminishing police effectiveness (Decker, 1985; Brown & Benedict, 2002). Community policing
literature highlights the intricate link between officers' focus on order maintenance and citizens'
perceived support. Citizen cooperation is influenced by trust, satisfaction, and confidence in the
police as an institution (Sunshine & Tyler, 2003).

A significant challenge arises from the historical perspective of police-community relations. The
perception of police as oppressors and the community as adversaries creates an "us" versus
"them" dynamic (De Vries, 2008, 128). Such a dichotomy hinders effective partnerships, with
the police focusing on planned operations while the community withholds critical crime-related
information.

Citizens' role often gets limited to being information providers, revealing a police-centric
orientation among community officers despite official policies emphasizing joint efforts
(Terpstra, 2008; van Os, 2010). Trust is foundational for community policing success, and
initiatives such as community consultations for CP strategy development can enhance
community participation (Adegbile, 2017; Kimbrough, 2016; Merkey, 2015; Williams et al.,
2016). However, challenges like coordinated transfers, limited public consultation, and
insufficient training for community liaisons hinder effective community-oriented policing
(Bitaliwo, 2014).

The absence of trust between police and the community poses a significant obstacle to
community policing acceptance (Becker, 2017). A primary goal of community policing is to
build trust for collaborative crime combatting (Rukus et al., 2017). Police legitimacy, gauged by
public confidence and trust, is considered a key measure of successful policing (Solakoglu,
2016).
Studies on attitudes toward community-oriented policing indicate their importance in crime
reduction success. Positive attitudes among police officers, especially managers, contribute to
effective crime prevention (Chappell, 2007; Ercikti et al., 2011). Understanding and improving
these attitudes is crucial for the successful implementation of community policing strategies.
CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY

3.1. Introduction

This chapter outlines the methodology employed to assess the prospects and challenges of
community policing in Kellem Wollega Dembi Dollo Town, taking into account the population
in the study, the sample, and the sampling procedure. It also discusses the data collection
instrument used and the mode of data analysis to address the study's questions, adhering to
accepted research procedures involving questionnaires and interviews.

3.2. Descriptions of the Study Area

Kellem Wollega, located in the Oromia Region of Ethiopia, was formed from woredas
previously part of West Wollega Zone. According to the 2007 Census by the Central Statistical
Agency of Ethiopia (CSA), the zone has a total population of 797,666, with 401,905 men and
395,761 women. Urban inhabitants constitute 9.56% of the population, with 159,353 households,
averaging 5.01 persons per household. The predominant ethnic groups are Oromo (94.08%) and
Amhara (5.13%). Afaan Oromoo is the primary language for 94.12%, while 5.32% speak
Amharic. The majority practice Protestantism (48.45%), followed by Ethiopian Orthodox
Christianity (26.9%), and Islam (23%).

3.3. Research Design and Approach

This study adopts a mixed-method research design, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative
methods. Qualitative data were collected through interviews, open-ended questionnaires,
observations, and focus group discussions, while quantitative data were obtained through closed-
ended questionnaires. The analysis followed established research procedures, allowing for a
comprehensive understanding of the community policing situation.

3.4. Target Population

The target population comprises various groups, including elder religious/cultural leaders, local
politicians, security officers, women's group representatives, teachers, college/university
lecturers, sub-city administrators, and youth, all identified as having similar behavioral
characteristics relevant to the research questions.
3.5. Sampling Technique and Sample Size

3.5.1 Sample Size Determination

For this study, the researcher selected a sample size of 350 respondents from the total population
of 9016 households in Dembidolo town administration, kebeles 01 and 02, according to the 2007
CSA data.

3.5.2 Sampling Technique

The study employed probability sampling techniques, specifically simple random sampling
(SRS) for community policing site selection and systematic sampling (SS) for identifying
household respondents. Additionally, non-probability or purposive sampling techniques were
used in selecting the sub-city and kebeles. The final sample was selected using a combination of
non-probability and probability sampling methods, ensuring representative and unbiased
participant inclusion.

The sample size was quantitatively determined using Yemane's 1997 formula, assuming a
confidence level of 95%.

n=N

1+ Ne 2

9016
=399
1+ 9016 x 0.0025

Where:

N=Population size

n= sample size

e= margin of error (degree of accuracy) (0.05)

3.7 Data Collection Instruments

To ensure a comprehensive dataset for analysis and to achieve the study's objectives, various
data collection instruments were employed. The primary tools included:

3.7.1. Questionnaires

Questionnaires were designed for the sample survey to gather detailed information from the
selected population. Prepared initially in English, the questionnaires were later translated into
Amharic to facilitate communication with respondents. The researcher ensured clarity, smooth
interaction, and concluded with a polite demeanor.

3.7.2. Interview Schedule

Unstructured interviews were conducted with officials in Dembidolo Town's kebele 01 & 02 and
community policing officers.

3.7.3. Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and Observation

Focus group discussions involving four distinct groups and observations were utilized to obtain
in-depth information beyond what was garnered through questionnaires. Flexible questions were
posed to participants, and the researcher recorded and noted responses extensively.

3.8. Method of Data Analysis

Following the collection of relevant data, various techniques were employed for analysis. Survey
data from respondents were entered into a computer for analysis using Statistical Packages for
Social Science (SPSS) version 25 software. Descriptive statistics, as suggested by Amin (2005),
provided a numerical and graphical presentation offering an overall snapshot of the collected
data. Both qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed, with quantitative data undergoing
analysis using relevant descriptive statistics through SPSS. Results were presented using tables,
frequencies, and percentage expressions.

Quantitative data were transcribed, classified, grouped, coded, and categorized to generate
descriptive statistics. Qualitative descriptions from data secured through FGD and semi-
structured interviews were employed to describe and summarize the investigation results.

3.9 Definition of Operational Terms

Community: Various conceptions exist, viewing community as either a geographic area or a
space of shared life. According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, "community"
encompasses small neighborhoods, city areas, villages, or groups of citizens with common
concerns. Taye Kejia further defines it as any group sharing characteristics such as geographical
area, occupation, ethnicity, economic status, shared governance, and a common cultural and
historical heritage.

Crime: Defined as an illegal activity causing physical or moral harm, in line with the Ethiopian
criminal code. Crime includes acts prohibited and punishable by law, constituting the violation
of a duty or behavior mandated by law.

Policing: Policing is an activity directed towards justice and security by the police and others. It
is a social service created by humans, rendered to humans for their well-being. Policing involves
the police, the community, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations.

Police: Trained individuals in crime prevention and investigation, maintaining peace and
security within the community. The police exercise reasonable control to ensure general security,
health, safety, morals, and welfare.

Community Partnership: A flexible term referring to cooperation between neighborhood

residents, schools, churches, businesses, organizations, elected officials, and government
agencies working with the police to resolve identified problems.

Crime Prevention: The attempt to eliminate crime before its occurrence or further activity. It
involves analyzing criminal methods, designing actions to reduce criminal opportunities, and
managing crime risks. Community policing aims to prevent crime effectively through citizen
involvement, promoting a safer and less fearful environment.