What was a key effect of officers being reassigned from walking beats to cars?

The key effect of officers being reassigned from walking beats to cars is that it led to a distancing of police from citizens. When officers patrol on foot, they are more accessible to the community, can engage more easily with the public, and build trust and rapport through direct interaction. Conversely, when officers use vehicles for patrolling, there is a physical barrier that can create a sense of separation from the community they serve. This shift can diminish opportunities for informal conversations and community policing efforts, which are crucial for establishing relationships and understanding the needs and concerns of the community members. The increased distance can lead to perceptions of the police as being less approachable and more disconnected from the daily lives of citizens, which is a significant change in the dynamic between law enforcement and the communities they serve.