Police Ethical Conduct
A police officer should be cognizant of their ethical and professional responsibilities when conducting their duties. Actions or decisions that are ethically grounded will ensure a commitment to integrity and professionalism is met.
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Police Ethical Conduct
Assignment Deliverable
Research a criminal case that recently occurred in your city or state. (Griffin, GA)
Create a Microsoft® PowerPoint® presentation (minimum of 10 slides not including title or reference slides) explaining how law enforcement adhered to the ethical standards and professional responsibilities.
Audience: Develop your assessment from a first-person perspective, as though you were a police officer involved in the case, who is preparing to present the information to the court, justifying your ethical and professional conduct.
Incorporate the following details in your presentation:
- Summarize the case. What crime(s) were committed and by whom? What were the charges against the defendant?
- Explain the role law enforcement played in the case. How were you specifically involved?
- Describe 2-3 examples of professional responsibilities or duties you exhibited in the case.
- Describe 2–3 examples of ethical behavior you exhibited while performing your law enforcement duties in the case. Support your response by citing relevant sections of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Law Enforcement Code of Ethics.
- Identify potential negative consequences or outcomes that you avoided by performing your responsibilities professionally and/or ethically.
- Justify how your conduct supported the overall endeavors of law enforcement and/or the field of criminal justice.
- If applicable, explain how the defendant’s or victim’s rights were respected as a result of your professional and/or ethical conduct.
- Describe the impact your ethical behavior has on the public’s perspective of law enforcement within your community.
Case Overview: Griffin, GA
Law enforcement arrested both parents, who were allegedly responsible for the child’s neglect and death. The charges included felony murder, cruelty to children, and aggravated assault. The case drew widespread community attention due to the disturbing circumstances.
Professional Responsibilities Fulfilled
As a police officer involved, I ensured proper evidence collection at the crime scene, secured witness statements, and coordinated with child protective services. I followed correct arrest procedures and submitted timely reports. These responsibilities ensured the investigation was thorough and protected the integrity of the case. Maintaining chain of custody for all evidence was critical to building a strong prosecution.
Ethical Behavior Demonstrated
During the investigation, I treated the suspects respectfully and ensured they were informed of their rights under Miranda. I maintained objectivity and avoided personal bias, even under emotional circumstances. According to the IACP Code of Ethics, I upheld principles of impartiality, justice, and integrity. I also protected sensitive case details from the media to ensure a fair trial process.
Community Trust and Justice
By acting professionally and ethically, I helped prevent potential legal challenges, such as evidence suppression. My conduct preserved the defendant’s rights and upheld public trust. Ethical policing in high-profile cases strengthens the relationship between law enforcement and the community, reinforcing our commitment to justice and accountability.
