The Differences Between Ethics And Ethics In Law Enforcement

The contrast between ethics and morals can be subjective; however, there are variations. Ethics signify a social system in which morals are applied; whereas, morals define personal character. While a person’s moral code is generally constant, the person’s ethics can be subject to change. Furthermore, ethics can change according to individual and group associations or affiliations. A moral compass is innate and can be honed through direction by parental and other authority figures during the formative years; moreover, this influence could be positive or negative. In regard to ethics, you are who you hang with; in other words, a person’s associations and affiliations can define them for good or bad. A stellar reputation can be destroyed overnight

Fitch’s statement in regard to ethics in law enforcement, mitigating the risk for officer misconduct requires a more complete understanding of human behavior and motivation (2011). Before officers can operate ethically, they must remember their moral status is at stake in the situation; in addition to understanding the principles and values involved when choosing the proper course of action. As humans we are all subject to original sin; therefore, making moral choices as a Christian can become challenging when social ethics are applied. Members of law enforcement generally associate with one another on and off duty; likewise, the approval of their colleagues can become more important than that of their supervisors. Blue Lives develop strong bonds so that they will be there for one another. To summarize the code of silence, it has long been an acceptable practice to shield and protect the innocent as well as those few who are guilty; ergo, in a "silence" culture, whistle-blowers or snitches are not supported by the administration for the main reason is hypocrisy and fear dominates this culture (ToersBijuns, 2011). An example of a side of law enforcement that was darker than Fifty Shades of Grey is the account of Newark detective Ritchie Roberts. Roberts was assigned a drug taskforce, and resisting temptation he handed in almost $1 million that he found in a mobster’s car; however, rather than receiving kudos, he was ostracized in his precinct as defying the code. He is noted for the arrest of Frank Lucas (American Gangster) and brought down a large number of law enforcement connected with the drug