On July 24, as I walked through the doors of the Arcadia Police Department, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. Given the tense sociopolitical climate surrounding law enforcement, I knew this visit could be both eye-opening and challenging. However, I was eager to understand the individual efforts of the officers and gain insights into their experiences.
Acknowledging the need for police reform, I kept an open mind as I embarked on this tour. I believe that progress is essential for any institution, and law enforcement is no exception. Still, I also recognized that a functioning society requires a balance between safety and justice, and hearing the officers' anecdotes might shed light on this delicate equilibrium.
As I began the tour, I was immediately struck by the professionalism and dedication of the officers I met. Each one had a unique story to share, and it was evident that they genuinely cared about their community and the well-being of its citizens. I was particularly interested in their perspectives on community policing and the challenges they faced while trying to build trust and relationships in a complex and diverse environment.
As a cybersecurity major with an interest in digital policy and law, I was especially intrigued by the discussions about technological crime and the police department's efforts to combat it. Officer Crowther explained how the department was proactively embracing technology to stay ahead of evolving crime and threats. Their use of advanced analytics and data-driven strategies impressed me, as they reflected a commitment to staying at the forefront of law enforcement practices.
I saw a glimpse of how my future ambitions might align with these efforts. With the ever-increasing prominence of digital crime, it was reassuring to know that there were law enforcement professionals actively working to safeguard our digital spaces and protect individuals from cyber threats.
Through this tour, I gained a newfound appreciation for the complexity of policing. While there is undoubtedly room for reform, I realized that generalizations and blanket judgments would not lead us to a better society. Instead, I saw the significance of informed dialogue, constructive criticism, and collaboration between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
As my visit to the Arcadia Police Department came to an end, I left with a mix of emotions. I was encouraged by the dedication and innovative spirit of the officers, but I was also reminded of the challenges that lay ahead. My passion for cybersecurity and digital policy had been further fueled, knowing that these fields played a crucial role in shaping the future of law enforcement.
In the end, I understood that striving for a fair and just society requires continuous improvement and a willingness to embrace change. I was grateful for the opportunity to have this experience, and it only solidified my commitment to contributing positively to the fields I aspire to pursue. As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I hope to be part of the efforts to bridge the gap between law enforcement, technology, and the evolving needs of our society.
The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not reflect the views or positions of CAUSE or the CAUSE network.
Written by Naya Dukkipati, Leadership Academy 2023 Intern.
The CAUSE Leadership Academy (CLA) for students is a nine-week, paid, internship program that prepares college undergraduates to lead and advocate for the Asian Pacific Islander community on their campuses and beyond.