Law Enforcement Evolution
Law enforcement has transformed from community-based systems to today's professional police force. Originally, local communities handled crime through tithings (groups of ten households) and the hue and cry system, where everyone was expected to chase criminals and raise the alarm.
Over time, the King and government gradually took more control. This shift created the centralised and specialised police force we know today, with trained officers, proper equipment, and organised procedures.
The biggest changes have occurred in law enforcement and punishment methods, whilst crime types have shown remarkable continuity. However, attitudes have shifted significantly - from focusing on deterrence (scaring people away from crime) to rehabilitation (helping criminals change their behaviour).
Technology continues driving change, creating new types of crimes that didn't exist centuries ago, like cybercrime and identity theft.
Remember: Law enforcement went from "everyone's responsibility" to "government's responsibility" over 1,000 years.