Crime Fighter vs. Public Servant
What is the main mission of a crime fighter police officer?
Enforce laws, catch offenders, and control crime.
In which era were police tied to politics and corruption most strongly?
The Political Era (1800s–early 1900s).
According to the chapter, what is “authority”?
An unquestionable entitlement to be obeyed that comes from fulfilling a specific role.
What organization created the most common police Code of Ethics?
The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP).
What is the “blue wall of silence”?
An unwritten code where officers don’t report misconduct.
What is the main mission of a public servant police officer?
Protect rights, maintain order fairly, and serve the community.
Which era emphasized professionalism and separation from the community?
The Reform Era (1930s–1970s).
What is the “social contract”?
Citizens give up some freedoms for safety and order.
Name one major theme in the IACP Code of Ethics.
Examples: fairness, service, integrity, respect for rights.
What is “noble cause corruption”?
Breaking rules for a “just” outcome (e.g., Dirty Harry problem).
What are risks of focusing too much on crime fighting?
Risk of over-policing, violating rights, or excessive force.
What era introduced community policing and accountability?
The Community Era (1980s–present).
What are Cohen and Feldberg’s five ethical standards?
Fair access, public trust, safety and security, teamwork, objectivity.
What does the IACP Oath of Honor say about integrity?
It pledges never to betray badge, integrity, character, or public trust.
Name one common theme in police subculture.
Examples: loyalty, secrecy, us vs. them mentality, importance of force.
What is one risk of focusing too much on public service?
Risk of being seen as too lenient or slow to act.
Name one recent trend in policing.
Examples: body-worn cameras, de-escalation training, data-driven policing.
Name one of Wilson’s three styles of policing.
Legalistic, watchman, or caretaker styles.
Why are formal ethics important for officers?
They unify officers, build public trust, and guide professional behavior.
How can subculture support officers in a positive way?
It builds teamwork, solidarity, and mutual protection among officers.
How has the balance between crime fighting and public service shifted in modern policing?
Modern policing emphasizes community partnerships and trust while still addressing crime.
What is the “Ferguson Effect”?
The hypothesis that public scrutiny after Ferguson made police less proactive.
What percentage of police shootings involve people in mental distress?
About 25%
Give an example of an ethical dilemma an officer might face (from the chapter or slides).
Example: An officer deciding whether to arrest a homeless parent stealing food for their children.
How did the Central Park 5 case reflect issues in police subculture?
Officers coerced confessions from teenagers, prioritizing convictions over ethics.