Who is known as the father of modern policing?

The title of "father of modern policing" is most commonly attributed to Sir Robert Peel. He was instrumental in establishing the Metropolitan Police Service in London in 1829, which was the first professional police force. Peel’s principles of policing emphasized the importance of community cooperation, ethical standards, and the professionalization of law enforcement. His ideas laid the groundwork for modern policing practices, focusing on crime prevention rather than just punishment, and fostering a relationship between the police and the public to ensure safety and security.

Peel's principles remain influential in contemporary law enforcement strategies and are still taught in police academies today. His emphasis on police legitimacy and accountability has shaped the expectations for modern police forces around the world, making his contributions foundational to the practices we consider standard in contemporary policing.