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