Ethical Standards in Law Enforcement

• Author: George Kurian
• Pages: 1135-1137

Contenidos

• PREAMBLE.
• Principle 1: Responsibility.
• Principle 2: Competence.
• Principle 3: Professional and Legal Standards.
• Principle 4: Public Statements.
• Principle 5: Confidentiality.
• Principle 6: Professional Relationships.
• Principle 7: Education and Training Practices.
• Principle 8: Research and Writing.
• Principle 9: Recruitment and Employment Practices.

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SOURCE LEAPS, 1973.

INTRODUCTION The Law Enforcement Association on Professional Standards, Education, and Ethical Practice (LEAPS) was founded in 1970, in St Louis, Missouri. Its membership of more than 200 was comprised of police practitioners and academics with college degrees who were "united to promote professional standards and ethical practice in police services." The Standards, released on June 26, 1973, received some support and in one case at least (Jamestown, NY) were incorporated into a police manual. In 1974 LEAPS merged with the New York based Academy of Police Science (founded in 1958) to form the American Academy for Professional Law Enforcement (AAPLE). The Standards carried over to the new organization, which eventually redrafted them as its own.

PREAMBLE

The worth of the law enforcement profession is measured by its contribution to the welfare of man, by its concern for excellence, and by the guidance it provides its members toward a high level of ethical practice. The purpose of the present principles of ethics are: to better serve the public; to elevate the standards of the profession and to strengthen public confidence in law enforcement; to encourage law enforcement officers to fully appreciate the total responsibilities of their office; to earn the support and cooperation of the public; and to ensure the effectiveness of service to society.

Principle 1: Responsibility

The officer, committed to the welfare of the public, through the rule of law and professional service, places high value on objectivity and integrity an maintains the highest standards in the services the officer provides.

The officer believes in the dignity and worth of the individual and in the constitutional right of all persons to liberty, equality, and justice under the law.

The officer is entrusted with a special authority and responsibility to enforce the laws of society and to

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carry out this mandate with courtesy, fairness, consideration, and compassion.

Officers in a command or supervisory position will carry out their duties in a manner that is consistent with the highest degree of professional effectiveness, efficiency, and responsibility.

Principle 2: Competence

Professional competence is an obligation shared by all law enforcement officers, in the interest of the public and of the profession as a whole, from the selection throughout their professional...