Law Enforcement Ethics Assessment

Which of the following best defines ethics in law enforcement?

• Following department policy only

• Acting according to personal opinion

• Doing what is right, fair, and just

• Only obeying supervisors

Values are best described as:

• Rules made by society

• Strong beliefs that guide behavior

• Legal statutes

• Department-issued codes

A moral compass in policing refers to:

• The GPS system in patrol cars

• A code of law unique to each state

• A personal guide to ethical decision-making

• Following the majority opinion of fellow officers

Which of the following is an example of unethical behavior?

• Writing a complete report

• De-escalating a situation

• Accepting a gift card from a business owner

• Respecting a citizen’s rights

Internal discipline may include all of the following EXCEPT:

• Suspension

• Termination

• Promotion

• Verbal warning

Which unit usually investigates complaints against officers?

• Patrol Unit

• Internal Affairs

• Civil Division

• Traffic Division

A legal consequence for lying on a police report could include:

• A vacation

• A lawsuit or criminal charge

• A community award

• Reassignment to another shift

Community mistrust can result in:

• Higher promotion rates

• Greater cooperation with officers

• Increased public protests and fear

• Reduced scrutiny of officer behavior

In the case where an officer lies on a report, what is the most direct consequence?

• Public trust increases

• Officer may be suspended or fired

• The officer receives a commendation

• It has no impact

Accepting a holiday gift basket from a business may be seen as:

• Appropriate community engagement

• Harmless appreciation

• A conflict of interest or ethical violation

• Mandatory policy