Ethical Standards

Ethical Standards

The ethical standards in law enforcement have been recognized as an organizational value system, or codes of ethics meant to educate, and direct the behavior of those who work within the organization. The oath of office, which can be considered a shorthand version of the value system or The Law Enforcement Code of Ethics. Other ideals controlling police ethics are the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Ethics and Criminal Justice

The nature of ethics, and the role it plays within the criminal justice system can be described as the “The Law Enforcement Code of Ethics” that is the following: “As a law enforcement officer, my fundamental duty is to serve mankind; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against deception; the weak against oppression or intimidation; and the peaceful against violence or disorder; and to respect the Constitutional rights of all men to liberty, equality, and justice” (No Arthur, n.d).

• I will keep my private life clean so that it can be an example to all; maintain danger, scorn, or ridicule and to be able to have self restraint when it comes to tough situations be mindful of others. Make sure that I am honest in all aspects of my life both personal and professional. I will obey the laws and the regulations of my department. Make sure whatever I hear that is confidential or has been confided in me that it will be kept with me and no one else. (No Arthur, n.d.).

• I will never act like I am the boss or show my personal feelings when it comes to prejudices, animosities, or let my friendships to influence my decisions. Having no negotiations when it comes to criminals and making sure they are prosecuted to the fullest. I will make sure I enforce the law appropriately without fear or favor, malice or ill will, never employing unnecessary force or violence and never accepting gratuities (No Arthur, n.d.).

• I know my badge is a symbol of public faith and trust that will be held as long as I am true to the ethics of being a police officer. I will strive constantly to achieve my objectives, and dedicate myself to my professions of a law enforcement officer. (No Arthur, n.d.).

Law enforcement officers face ethical dilemmas every day. Ethical dilemmas are vital in the criminal justice system because criminal justice professionals are often confronted to make judgments that consist of ethical issues. They make difficult decisions daily by using good discretion. Every situation is different, and circumstances surrounding an incident may determine, whether or not an arrest is made. Many confuse the professionalism of a law enforcement officer with the image of the officer who is cool and distant showing no emotions with sharp uniform, polished shoes, reflective sunglasses, using high technology as an authority deterring criminals.

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