What was a primary goal of the reform era in law enforcement?

The primary goal of the reform era in law enforcement, notably from the early 20th century through the 1960s, was to remove politics from law enforcement. This movement aimed to establish police departments that were more professional, accountable, and free from political influence. Reformers believed that political control often led to corruption and inefficiency within police departments. By advocating for a merit-based system of hiring and promotion, as well as the establishment of standards and practices in law enforcement, this era sought to improve the effectiveness and image of police forces.

Additionally, the reform era emphasized crime reduction and the application of scientific approaches to policing, such as statistics and improved techniques for investigation. This led to a focus on objective measures of efficiency and effectiveness in policing, rather than the subjective influences of political relationships. The push for professionalism significantly transformed the landscape of law enforcement, distancing it from the patronage systems previously common in many cities.