A code of ethics can be thought of as a moral compass that helps one decide how to act in critical moments. Ethics is particularly important for those who are in a position of power in corrections, as these individuals have the greatest influence over their employees. Officers in correctional facilities make extremely critical decisions every day and their choices have a profound effect on lives. It is therefore imperative that these men and women do what is right and are free of biases. Corrections professionals must have character and exemplify good ethical conduct.
These professionals must take their jobs serious and never betray their oath in office, their public trust, or their badge. Character and ethics are qualities that
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One more form of misuse of authority is sexual harassment that involves staff members and inmates, or their family members, or friends, or staff against staff. Obtaining financial or personal benefits is a form of misconduct in exchange for not pursuing or selectively pursuing an investigation on an inmate or additional charges on inmate. However, accepting bribes and gratuities is unethical. This is a temptation that some officers cannot resist and make the good officers look …show more content…
“Criminal justice leaders obviously play a key role in ethics. Not only must they enforce and uphold ethical standards, they must also set an example and see that employees are instructed in the ethical conduct of police business” (Peak, 2010,). Kanungo argues that the ethical actions of a leader can be explained by three factors: “the motive of the actor which is the primary source of one’s behavior, the manifest behavior itself, and the social context in which the behavior takes place” (Kanungo, 2011). Therefore, considering these three points, the honesty and ethics of a leader will determine how the leader strives to do the best for the followers and the organization. The values a true leader will be recognized in the daily actions of the leader. Personal values direct the leaders thinking in daily life. Leaders constantly make decisions, consciously or unconsciously. Individuals decide which friends and acquaintances to associate and if these people are