This is an odd paper and cites policing traditions that are para-military (RUC, LAPD and Central America) rather than civilian policing.

Whatever the successes of the RUC in Northern Ireland, alongside a substantial British Army and a locally recruited unit (Ulster Defence Regiment), the political violence / terrorism from both sides of the community was contained and kept an "acceptable" level. Not defeated. Community involvement in CT policing was minute; yes, there was information from the community (alas little in the public domain, except about confidential hotlines like Crime Stoppers).

Relations with the community will provide context and sometimes details of criminal activity that can be exploited by the police. Informants will provide details and rarely context. There are those from CT policing in the UK who advocate that the emphasis on informants is mis-placed and far more needs to be done with the community.

Ironically the use of informants in the UK appears to have actually declined, becoming a far more centralised, specialised role (with pro's and con's). A few years ago one experienced informant handler advocated that their sources stop talking with the police and use the far more confidential, anonymous Crime Stoppers (which can pay well).

Perhaps more comments another time.

davidbfpo