Why a Regional Police Force for Small Towns Is a Bad Idea

In an era of tightening budgets and calls for efficiency, the idea of consolidating small-town police departments into a regional force can seem appealing. Proponents argue it could save money, streamline resources, and standardize training. But beneath the surface, this shift threatens to unravel the very fabric that makes small-town policing effective. For rural communities, a regional police force isn’t a solution—it’s a step backward. The Loss of Local Connection Small towns aren’t just dots…