Abstract
Mission statements are instruments of organization communication. They have the ability to shape the attitudes and behavior of individuals in the organization. They also have the ability to shape the perceptions of the public. Changes in organizational activity and responsibility are often accompanied by changes in the written mission of the organization. At times these changes are brought about by conflict or crisis. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, are presented here as the impetus for change in law enforcement mission statements. This research examines the extent to which law enforcement agencies have incorporated references to terrorism in their mission statements. The research also examines the ease with which citizens are able to locate these mission statements through accessing agency Web sites. The content of law enforcement mission statements is also examined in respect to five key dimensions.
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