Cop In The Hood Summary

Cop in the Hood: My year Policing Baltimore's Eastern District

By: Peter Moskos

Princeton University Press, 2008.

Princeton and Oxford

Preamble

This book review deviates slightly from the usual format that reviews are done. To reflect the style of the book, sections are separated by phrases and ideas that set the thoughts expressed in them apart.

“10-7”

"to hear your friend and colleague described as 10-7 is heartbreaking. This is the way that few officers left working the streets know the burial is complete."

So much is written about policing. Despite the resentments, the police, charged with the task of keeping us safe remains undeterred in their mission so we can live to see another day. Moskos' autobiography evokes graphic images that we often see, but fail to acknowledge. A

Moskos’ attempt to be objective was apparent, but the narrative equally projects his personality. Of course, it is his experience, hence his story. The personification was unambiguous, and this interrogates the scope of his objectivity. Objectivity and subjectivity are established within our experiences, but in all, one can deduce the side to which he belongs. His attempt is laudable, and it provokes every reason one much pick this autobiographical narrative. Cop in the Hood allows for the appreciation of the diverse meanings of culture, identity, and class. It paves way for the understanding of the culture of violence as an integral part of our system. His subjectivity resonates in his idea that ghetto is exotic, as those in the ghetto will likely not share similar sentiments. Cop in the Hood evokes empathy in the reader towards the police institution, the ghettoes and especially every individual that has signed up to protect cities. Ghettos reside in every man. To understand this, grab a copy of the book and let Moskos’ descriptive narration guide you towards the ‘light’ that gives meaning to those