c1500-1700 law enforcement in early modern england

Question 1

Continuity

Answer 1

Witnesses to crime were still expected to stop suspects and report them to authorities.
Locals still expected to join in the hue and cry.

Question 2

Town constables

Answer 2

Employed by local town authorities and had power to arrest criminals and report them to the JP. They helped with town administration and oversaw the night watchmen, as well as respecting members of the community.

Question 3

Night watchmen

Answer 3

All householders were expected to volunteer however they did not get paid. They were overseen by the town constable and carried a lantern and a bell to ring for crimes while patrolling the streets from 10pm till dawn.