During the 1900-1940 period, policing shifted officers away from what practice?

The correct answer is that during the 1900-1940 period, policing shifted officers away from walking beats. This transformation was largely influenced by the advancements in technology and the introduction of vehicles in law enforcement. As patrols transitioned from foot-based methods to vehicle patrols, this allowed officers to cover larger areas more quickly and efficiently. The shift towards vehicle patrols represented a significant change in the policing model, emphasizing rapid response time and visibility.

Foot patrols, community service, and walking beats were integral parts of earlier policing methods that focused on building relationships within the community and familiarizing officers with specific neighborhoods. However, as police departments began to adopt a more modern approach to crime control and prevention, the focus shifted to the efficiency and expedience provided by automobiles. This led to a decline in traditional walking beats as officers relied more on vehicles to patrol and respond to incidents, which ultimately changed the dynamic of community interaction in policing.