LAW ENFORCEMENT

• As a result of increased population in towns, there was a need for a more organised law enforcement system, as traditional methods were less effective.
• Law enforcement continuities:

  • Hue and Cry
  • Tithings
  • No professional police force
• The justice system became far more secular, as the church became less important in society.
• Henry VII only allowed Benefit of Clergy once, and people with the privilege were branded.
• Edward VI made more serious crimes exempt from Benefit of Clergy.
• From 1576, churches only tried moral crimes.
• Henry VIII stopped exile abroad after sanctuary.
• James I abolished sanctuary.
• Town Constables - Employed by authorities, respected members of society. Had power to arrest suspects and take them to JPs. In charge of Watchmen and helped with town admin.
• Watchmen - Carried a lamp and rang a bell to alert people of crime. All male house holders expected to volunteer.