What was a significant focus of the reform/professionalism era?

The significant focus of the reform/professionalism era in policing was indeed centralized policing. This era, which emerged in the early to mid-20th century, emphasized the need for police departments to operate with a more professional approach. It aimed to reduce corruption and political influence within law enforcement agencies, emphasizing accountability, standardized practices, and the establishment of policies and procedures that would ensure consistency and fairness in policing.

During this period, centralization meant that command and control structures were tightened, with a focus on top-down management. This allowed for the implementation of modern techniques and technologies in policing, including increased use of scientific methods and data-driven approaches to crime. The goal was to create an efficient, effective police force that would serve public safety while gaining public trust through professionalism.

The other options reflect different policing philosophies or concepts that emerged in different eras or contexts. Decentralized policing, community-based policing, and participatory policing focus on local engagement, community input, and shared responsibility, which became more prominent after the reform/professionalism era as a reaction to its limitations. Centralized policing represented a foundational shift aimed at establishing order and discipline within the police force, which is why it is the correct answer in this context.