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It may not be exactly like OCP from RoboCop but private policing is becoming more prevalent.  As cities struggle to provide basic services, some communities are looking to corporations to supplement their law enforcement departments.  In the case of Oakland, California private security firms are being crowdsourced to fund extra security in high-crime neighborhoods.  Expect this to continue as the economy continues to experience little to no growth, resulting in lower revenues for municipalities.

I’ve written about this before but it bears repeating, when governments can’t provide essential services private citizens and companies will step in.  While the circumstances that compel this response may be discouraging, the rise of private policing and greater community involvement shows an encouraging trend.  This trend is that corporations and citizens are taking on greater responsibilities while increasing community involvement.  Down the road this points to greater civic involvement and engagement, which are good outcomes.