What should be included when evaluating a new policy's community impact?

When evaluating a new policy's community impact, it’s essential to consider potential changes in community relations and service delivery. This approach focuses on how the policy will affect the community members, including their relationship with law enforcement and the effectiveness of services being provided to them. Community relations are critical because a positive relationship between law enforcement and the community can ensure better cooperation, trust, and communication. Additionally, assessing changes in service delivery highlights how well the policy serves the community's needs and addresses specific issues, ultimately leading to enhanced public safety and community satisfaction.

In contrast to this comprehensive understanding, focusing solely on public approval ratings would neglect the deeper implications of how the policy influences real interactions and outcomes within the community. Relying on reports from only senior officers can result in a limited perspective that may not encompass the varied experiences of community members. Similarly, concentrating on departmental budgets overlooks the crucial social dynamics at play and could lead to decisions driven only by financial considerations rather than the community's overall welfare. Therefore, evaluating the potential changes in community relations and service delivery provides the most holistic view of how a new policy will impact the community.