Module 1 – The difference between ethical and unethical behavior
Module 2- The continuum of Compromise
Module 3 – The role of the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission
Module 4 – Disciplinary actions by the Criminal Justice
Standards and Training Commission
Goal:
To develop an individualized understanding of
the differences between ethical and unethical
behavior that relates to the students own job
and perspective on their profession in criminal
justice.
Objectives Describe the difference between ethical and unethical
behavior Describe the consequences of unethical behavior Describe the impact of a criminal justice lifestyle on
ethics Define personal ethics Define organizational ethics Identify the difference between personal and organized
ethics
Being true to yourself
What is the basis of our ethics? “ Always tell the truth; that way you don’t have to
remember what you said.” Harry Truman
Lying
Cheating
Stealing
Fibbing
Gossiping
Subjecting the agency to civil litigation.
A single incident of unethical behavior can take agency from being admired to being ridiculed, literally overnight.
A single incident can destroy your career.
Having your name in the news can be overwhelmingly humiliating.
What happens between the academy graduation and today?
Beliefs and values coming out of the academy.
Beliefs and values after several years of experience.
What influences changes in beliefs?
There are effects on your family.
What are organizational ethics? Core value statements and agency Codes of Conduct
Agency Policy
Statutes
Rules
Goal: To create an understanding of the progression of
movement from ethical to unethical behavior and the behaviors which indicate movement to unethical behavior.
Objectives: Describe the differences between an ethical and
unethical organization Describe the effects of unethical behavior on the
individual and the organization Describe the continuum of compromise Discuss the impact of conflict between personal ethics
and organizational culture
Have a positive view toward integrity
Maintain a belief that the organization will address ethical problems and situations
Understand that the agency culture does not tolerate unethical behaviors
Straightforward leadership
Administrative Courage
Creating and maintaining an open atmosphere
An aggressive training program
Discrimination
Lack of accountability
Excessive citizen complaints
Excessive use of force complaints
Abuse of sick leave
Inconsistent behaviors and actions
If an organization and its members develop a pattern of unethical behaviors it can result in:
Acts of commission
Acts of omission
A conflict between personal ethics and organization culture will have an impact on the officer.
Four options for response: Conform and move to that side of the continuum Not conform and be an outcast Partial conformity, minimal commitment Leave the organization
Stable and distinctive qualities built into an individuals life which determines one response regardless of the circumstances.
Rule 11b-27.0011, Florida Administrative Code
Felony convictions
Perjury convictions
Moral character violations
Felony offenses, regardless of criminal prosecution
Certain specified misdemeanors, regardless of criminal prosecution
Attempts and conspiracies
Acts in other jurisdictions
Controlled substance abuse
Excessive use of force
Sexual harassment
Misuse of official position
Sex while on duty
Unprofessional relationship with an inmate
False statements during the employment process
Subverting the officer certification exam process
Subverts CJSTC examination or agency promotional process
Any over, conspicuous act of a sexual nature
Intentional abuse of a temporary employment authorization
Performance of the duties of an officer
Discretion
Use of force
Confidentiality
Integrity
Cooperation with other officers and agencies
Personal/Professional capabilities
Private life
When confronted with an ethical dilemma, ask yourself the following questions: Is my action legal Will the result of my action be good Will what I plan to do actually work? Is there a less harmful alternative? Does it undermine some equal or more important value? Does a good end ever justify a bad means? Will I be able to justify my action if my decision is made public
Never Lie! How could you testify in court?
Other officers will not trust you
Criminal Justice Agencies will be reluctant to hire you