Corruption and Reform in Early Policing

This chapter examines the evolution of police forces in the United States during the early 20th century, focusing on their roles in enforcing organized crime and local corruption. Highlighting the historical interplay between police, politics, and systemic bribery, it critiques the effectiveness of authority in changing human behavior and emphasizes the significance of police unions in modern accountability. The narrative chronicles pivotal figures like August Vollmer and key events, such as the Boston police strike, revealing the complex relationship between law enforcement, labor rights, and societal corruption.