MPS Law Enforcement Exercises - Community Relations

Community Relations

WHAT IS THE COMMUNITY RELATIONS EXERCISE?
As police organizations have continued moving toward the Community Policing model, they have experienced an increased need to have the skills needed to effectively relate to the community and build community support in combatting crime and ensuring safe neighborhoods. The Community Relations exercise is specifically designed to identify those who have the skills necessary to be effective in a community policing environment. Candidates must meet with a citizen (role player) to discuss a complaint. Several scenarios are available. One popular scenario involves criminal activity in a neighborhood park area. Candidates must review background information on the problem, including prior complaints, then meet with the citizen to discuss the situation.

POSITIONS USED FOR?
The Community Relations is used for any law enforcement supervisory or management position.

COMMUNITY RELATIONS USED FOR:
>>>• Police Sergeant
>>>• Police Lieutenant
>>>• Police Captain
>>>• Police Chief

TEST FORMAT
The Community Relations is an oral simulation exercise. It consists of a detailed problem related to criminal activity. The assessee (who assumes the role of the police supervisor assigned to meet with the complaining citizen) must review background information, then meet with the citizen (i.e. role player) to discuss the situation. Assessees are given 20 minutes to review the background information, then up to a maximum of 15 minutes to meet with the citizen. Role players are supplied with detailed information regarding the problem, with explicit instructions on how they are to relate to the assessee.

SCORING AND REPORTING OF RESULTS
MPS does all of the scoring for you. Results are reported in the form of a rank-ordered list of the candidates. In addition, MPS uses a behavioral checklist approach to provide performance feedback for candidates on each of the factors measured. Behavioral checklists include both positive and negative behavioral descriptors, and are designed to assist assessees in identifying strengths, weaknesses, and developmental needs. Results are supplied via email in pdf format.

VIDEOTAPING THE EXERCISE
All necessary instructions and diagrams to properly set up and videotape the exercise are supplied. All that is required is a standard video camera and 1/2" VHS videotaping system and/or digital system to produce a DVD. No camera work is required.