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Ethical Law Enforcement

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Ethical Law Enforcement
Andy Abstein
Professor: Ortiz
Patrol Functions
2 December 2012
Ethical Law Enforcement
I chose this subject because I feel that before embarking on a career in law enforcement it is fundamental to understand how to play by the book without getting ostracized by ones peers. The purpose of this paper is to outline proper behavior while paying attention to factors that will effectively limit corruption.
The law enforcement oath of honor is as follows. “On my honor, I will never betray my badge, my integrity, my character, or the public trust. I will always have the courage to hold myself and others accountable for our actions. I will always uphold the constitution my community and the agency I serve.”
On a daily basis police officers risk their lives to protect citizens and defend liberty. It is a noble and selfless occupation that makes a difference in the quality of life.
Before taking the Law Enforcement Oath of Honor it is important to comprehend its meaning. Honor, means your word is given as a guarantee, Betray is breaking faith with the public trust, Badge is your symbol of office, Integrity is adhering to the same code of conduct in private life and public duty, Character is distinguishing qualities of an individual, Public Trust is the faith of those you serve that your conduct will be ethical, Courage is strength against danger fear and non-ethical pressure, Accountability You answer to the office of your oath and are responsible to it, and Community is the jurisdiction of the office and the citizens within it ("International Association of Chiefs of Police").
Officers are public servants who have authority over others and make decisions that contribute to public welfare. We expect them to wield this power without favor or prejudice. As a public servant ones life will be judged by the community. There is a higher degree of scrutiny towards activities taken in the officer’s private life (Delattre, Edwin).
Article nine of the IACP Canon of

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