Zero tolerance policing: Firmness with courtesy

[Extract] Firmness With Courtesy', this used to be the motto of the Queensland Police Service. This was in the days prior to such policing strategies as Community Policing and problem Orientated Policing (POl), which reflected from what at that time period, were seen to be traditional police methods. The term 'firmness with courtesy" could perhaps also be assimilated with the concept of Zero Tolerance Policing (ZTP). ZTP has been lauded in some circles as an answer to ever increasing crime rates. Others have seen ZTP as an ineffective and oppressive policing regime. This article will examine a number of areas to reach a rationale evaluation about the value of ZTP. The concept of ZTP will be examined, as often ZTP can be over simplified. The effect hat ZTP has had in those jurisdictions where it has been implemented will then be examined. Issues in relation to perceived disadvantages and benefits will then be put forward and discussed. Finally it will be argued that there is room for ZTP to be applied in Australian policing environments and that ZTP should be a part of any policing strategy.