SOCIAL CONTROL

The types of social control exhibited within West Hollywood are very similar all the other services within the city. The city of West Hollywood contracts out its police services to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. They are the main social control facilitator from a law enforcement standpoint. The area is also governed by a set of and laws. With the vibrant nightlife and revenue associated with it there is some leeway as far as some laws are concerned. Therefore another factor of social control are the people and inhabitants of the city itself.

In West Hollywood, the local law enforcement officials at the Sheriff’s Department maintain social control. They are contracted with the city of West Hollywood to be the main police enforcement agency within the city. Additionally, neighborhood watch, community policing and outreach, and a high number of non-profit and community groups all serve and protect various populations within West Hollywood's city limits. Many populations also have their own set of norms and policies to police their territory. In particular, some of the elderly and Russian immigrant groups are very close knit and use social pressure to maintain control over their turf.

West Hollywood has a very noticeable police presence within the city. They cruise Sunset Blvd. to control drag racing, but they are also viably accessible from places like the downtown shops to the new Target/Best Buy Center. During city events, the West Hollywood Police come out to maintain order. Because the area that their Sheriff's Department serves is only 1.9 square miles wide, the WHSD is able to maintain a strong visual and community presence within West Hollywood.

Notice the city's unique shape and rainbow-colored logo on the car door.