The future of policing the future of policing since the 1970s rollbacks in the social safety net growing income inequality and deinstitutionalization of the mentally ill have meant that police officers are tasked with responding to an ever growing list of social problems in many communities the police have become first responders for issues connected to poverty lack of housing mental . The future of policing david h bayley clifford d shearing this essay examines the restructuring of policing currently taking place in developed democratic societies it argues that restructuring is occurring under private as well as government auspices and will have profound effects on public safety equity human rights and accountability these effects are discussed along with the trade . The policing innovations shaping the future of law enforcement the next century of policing law enforcement is about keeping society safe so it is no surprise that as society has law enforcement innovation innovation is not just about the latest gadget its about finding new ways to do . The essay concludes with a prediction about the future of policing and suggests policies that are needed to avoid restructurings harmful effects suggested citation suggested citation bayley david h and shearing clifford d the future of policing february 2 1996 law and society review 303