Timeline in Policing History

¶ … Policing History

1823- Stephen F. Austin known as the "Father of Texas" receives permission from the Mexican Government to employ ten men to protect the new Texas frontier. This marks the beginning of the long storied and infamous Texas Rangers. This is significant because it the initiation of one of the first law, and order enforcement agencies in the history of America.

1845- New York, this date and location is widely accepted as the beginning of paid, professional policing in America. William Frederick Havemeyer was the appointed mayor of the city during this time period. At his proposal, The New York State Legislature approved a proposal to organize and created the NYPD. This is significant because it marked the beginning of an institution that has been emulated and followed by other major cities across America. These cities followed and expanded New York's model of policing.

1902- Fingerprinting is first used in the United States. It was the first systematic use of fingerprinting by the New York Civil Service Commission. Dr. P. DeForrest pioneers U.S. finger printing. This is significant because it has been in invaluable tool for law enforcement. It has allowed for the identification of criminals and the solving of countless number of crimes.

1908- The FBI is created from a group of special agents appointed by Attorney General Charles Bonaparte in Washington D.C. This event is significant because it marked the initiation of a Federal Police Force with jurisdiction across state boundaries at a national level. It facilitated the capture of fugitives and criminals all across America.

1924- J. Edgar Hoover is appointed Director of the FBI. Hoover is credited with building the organization into a highly efficient, modern and effective institution as well as implementing modern and innovative techniques in the fight against crime. He remained director until his death in 1972. This is significant because it marked a new era in law enforcement one that became more united and centralized. Washington D.C.

1932- The Federal Kidnapping Act is passed giving the FBI the right to investigate kidnappings across state borders. Following the kidnapping of Charles LindBergh's son, the United States adopted a federal kidnapping statue. This is significant because it allowed for the working together of agencies with the FBI in order to solve crimes across state lines.

1950- The FBI begins the now infamous Ten Most Wanted Fugitives Program. This is a program devised by Hoover and his associates at the F.B.I aimed at capturing elusive criminals. It is significant because has aided in the capture of some of America's most violent and dangerous criminals.

1965- The case Miranda vs. Arizona lands in the Supreme Court where it is determined that the accused have the right to remain silent, and that prosecutors cannot use statements made by the defendants while in police custody unless the police has advised them about their rights. This marked a significant date in policing history due to the legal and procedural implications involved.