NCJ Number
132799
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 58 Issue: 10 Dated: (October 1991) Pages: 127-133
Date Published
1991
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Informal ethical norms for policing can reflect formal ethical ideals through the effective communication of ethical standards, training to provide tools for meeting ethical expectations, and the creation of an environment in which such training can be implemented.
Abstract
The communication of ethical expectations can be done in many ways including policy statements, the promulgation of rules and procedures, discipline for ethical violations, and the informal communication of ethical expectations among police personnel. Training in ethical standards must not only be done in the academy but continued throughout an officer's career. This is because studies indicate that the ethical standards of officers tend to weaken over time. The California Commission on Police Officer Standards and Training, in conjunction with the California Peace Officers Association and the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, has developed a model ethics and integrity training program that consists of an 8-hour small-group discussion that focuses on the resolution of ethical dilemmas with the assistance of a trained facilitator. These seminars are conducted periodically for all officers. The creation of an environment in which ethics training can be applied requires that supervisors be specially trained to be ethical role models and facilitators. Field training officers must also act as role models for ethical behavior and attitudes. Line personnel as well as supervisors who encourage ethical behavior among their peers should be publicly supported by top police administrators. 4 references