The influence of Christianity on community policing with particular reference to crime reduction: A case of Kisii town, Kisii county - Kenya.

Abstract

In Kenya, more than a half of the population is Christian, likewise in Kisii County This provided a strong case for the consideration of the input of christian morals in effective community policing which has gained popularity in Kenya recently. Therefore, the study aimed at examining the influence of Christianity on community policing with particular reference to crime reduction in Kisii Town, Kisii County - Kenya. The study was guided by the following objectives: To investigate how christian values contribute to teamwork in community policing. To find out the extent to which Christian conduct influences community policing. To investigate extent which christianity instills the rule of law in a community. To investigate the extent to which Christianity contribute to character modeling. The study employed a combination of both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative approach used was a questionnaire and the qualitative approach which included use of interviews. It utilized a cross-sectional survey design, which was largely descriptive in nature. The sample size used was 121 respondents of the target population. Data was collected and analyzed using the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The study findings will be significant in availing information on the role of Christianity in community policing. The findings will be very significant to the government as it will use the result to make community policing a success. The study concluded that Christianity was greatly associated with adherence to the community Policing code of conduct. Christianity does have a significant relationship with community Policing success. The study also reveals that Christian’s commitment does have a significant relationship with community policing conduct. The study also revealed that Christian influence contributed to reduced incidences of malpractices in community policing. This in turn will generate successful community policing operations leading to reduced crime and peaceful moments readily embraced by community. The study recommends that the government should involve the church in the implementation of the community policing which has just been introduced in Kenya. To begin such a programme, Kisii Town will be an ideal place due to a high presence of members of the Christian faith.