The Dynamics of State and Nonstate Actor Cooperation in Violence Reduction: Perspectives From Trinidad and Tobago

Publication Date

3-6-2026

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice

Volume

42

Issue

2 Special Issue: Plural Policing in the Global South: Navigating Hybridity and Security Partnerships

DOI

10.1177/10439862261423862

First Page

310

Last Page

327

Abstract

Since their establishment, public police agencies have been primarily responsible for maintaining law and order, reducing crime, and responding to incidents of crime and social disorder. However, as societies become more complex and dynamic, it is increasingly recognized that the tasks of crime control and violence reduction cannot be addressed by formal police institutions alone. This recognition has led to the growing involvement of a range of nonpolice actors in the broader policing landscape. In Trinidad and Tobago, individuals and community-based networks often work alongside the official police service to address crime and reduce violence. This article examines the experiences and perspectives of 15 Hearts and Minds officers regarding the impact and effectiveness of stakeholder collaboration in reducing violence in high-crime areas near the capital, Port of Spain.

Keywords

community policing, plural policing, police, Trinidad and Tobago

Department

Justice Studies

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS