Which of the following is NOT a feature of the political era?

• A. Close ties to politicians
• B. Community partnerships
• C. Patronage-based appointments
• D. Corruption risk

Answer: (B)

During the political era, police departments operated mainly to serve the local political machines. Officers were often hired and promoted through patronage to reward political supporters, and the system carried a high risk of corruption because police power was closely tied to political interests rather than neutral standards. Community involvement and collaborative problem-solving were not defining features of this period; the focus was on maintaining the political order and control, sometimes through coercive means.

Community partnerships, by contrast, align with later policing approaches that emphasize working with residents to identify problems and develop solutions. That’s why this option is not a feature of the political era, making it the correct choice.