NCJ Number
154539
Journal
Sheriff Volume: 47 Issue: 2 Dated: (March-April 1995) Pages: 10-11,46-47,57
Date Published
1995
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the importance of and issues in police ethics.
Abstract
The author first establishes that law enforcement qualifies as a profession, and as such it should give priority to professional standards of conduct and behavior. These standards are contained in the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics and the Police Code of Conduct. The primary obstacle in implementing standards of police conduct and ethics is that law enforcement leaders do not generally emphasize these established standards either by policy or example. If police ethical conduct and behavior is to be promoted, an ethical climate or culture must be established. There are three principles for creating an ethical climate or culture: begin with a vision that includes employees, customers, and communities; be guided by values that anchor the vision; and be supported by norms and policies that influence desired behavior in the organizational environment. The 10 ingredients of an ethical culture are listed in this article, followed by a discussion of the need for ethical standards. Five standards for ethical police conduct delineated in the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics and the Police Code of Conduct are outlined. Other sections address principles for ethical management and a three-question "Ethics Check." 14 references