In many police organizations, especially poorly managed departments, the leadership philosophy is to control the officer rather than encourage team building. When this type of leadership exists within departments, it becomes increasingly difficult to retain officers. Leaders within police departments must, therefore, shift their emphasis from employee control to employee team building, and they must involve officers at every level in decision making. They must also work to develop the traits found in effective leaders, and they should study effective leadership styles. Sound leadership knowledge and practices are critical to effective police organizations.
Dynamic leadership can lead to progressive, highly successful, and innovative departments.
It is only through this type of leadership that departments will meet both the demands of today and the challenges of the future. Supra note 2, pp.