ABSTRACT
For many countries with a history of colonialism, dependency on international donor aid and/or reliance on outsider policing strategizing, the shift away from reactive policing to more community-oriented approaches has become somewhat of a necessity. Strong international emphasis on proactive policing strategies further propel reform efforts in developing countries, with community policing models being adopted from the global North, adapted and implemented in the global South. Here we highlight the realities of policing policy adaptation and implementation on Guam. We present an interview with Joseph Cruz, Guam’s Chief of Police highlighting the challenges and successes associated with Guam’s shift from traditional to Community Oriented Policing. The interview presents his views on the impact of the shift and the relationship between the policing organisation and the community. Here we underscore his stance on the necessity of taking ownership of an adopted model and modifying it to fit local context, culture, ideologies and societal shifts.
