Criminology

    The 18th century kept a record of questionable organization within the Dublin Metropolitan police. The provision of security during the night was inefficient while during the day the police were no were to be seen. The city had been divided in to several parishes in which the watch system was to be exercised. Security was made available in each parish by a group of selected watchmen who did their duties in turn. The work of supervision was laid in the hands of the parishioners while a constable took charge of the groups. The watch system was different for different times in the year. The night watch mandated from 1st of April to Michaelmas was from 2300 hours to 5 A.M. Night watch was carried out from 2200 hours to 6 am for the remaining days of the year (PoliceHistory.com, 2009).

    The need of strengthening the night vigil was important. This was addressed in the Statue published in 1715. The3 appointment of Constables and Watchmen was rendered in the hands of the Dublin Corporation. Subsequent amendments were done to get better the watch system. To enable distribution of responsibilities of arm distribution, handling salary issues to watchmen and determining the number of watchmen required, the statue provided for inclusion of supervisors and directors in the watch system. Selection of watchmen and constables was later left in the hands of the court (Babylon.com, 2009).

    Subsequent reforms were welcomed with the inclusion of magistrates and commissioners in the system. The chief constable was mandated to carry out patrols both at night and during the day. As a police chief, I would put various aspects into play. I would ensure that the petty constables carry their duties efficiently without creating loopholes in the system.