Who is considered the first line of the criminal justice system?

Police officers are considered the first line of the criminal justice system because they are typically the first point of contact that a citizen has with law enforcement. Their role includes responding to emergency calls, investigating crimes, gathering evidence, and enforcing laws. This initial interaction is crucial, as they set the stage for how the situation will be handled moving forward, whether it leads to arrests, investigations, or community assistance.

Their actions can influence the effectiveness of the justice process, including the collection of evidence and the protection of victims and witnesses. The police’s presence in the community is aimed at preventing crime and maintaining public order, which underpins the entire structure of the criminal justice system. As the frontline responders, they play a pivotal role in shaping public trust and confidence in law enforcement and the justice process as a whole.