What is meant by "zero-tolerance policing"?

"Zero-tolerance policing" refers to a strict approach to enforcing laws for all offenses, regardless of their severity. This strategy emphasizes that even minor infractions should be addressed with the same seriousness as more significant crimes. By enforcing laws consistently and without leniency, this approach aims to deter criminal behavior, reduce overall crime rates, and ensure that all community members feel safe and accountable. The rationale is that allowing minor offenses to go unpunished can lead to an increase in more serious crime and contribute to a perception of disorder in the community.

This approach is often linked to the "broken windows theory," which suggests that maintaining order by addressing small problems can prevent larger issues from arising. The application of zero-tolerance policies can be seen in various policing strategies, particularly in urban areas experiencing high crime rates, where law enforcement seeks to create a stronger presence and instill a sense of order by cracking down on all violations.