Ethical violations
The use of force by law enforcement officers is sometimes required when dealing with suspects resisting arrest and/or individuals disobeying direct orders. However, when the use of force becomes excessive or is used unnecessarily, law enforcement officers are arguably engaging in ethical, and in many cases, criminal offenses.
Compose an answer
- Describe the different types of ethical violations that can occur when excessive use of force occurs.
- What policies can law enforcement administrators implement to minimize officers unnecessarily using excessive use of force without impeding the discretion necessary for officers to effectively carry out their duties.
Sample Answer
here are some of the different types of ethical violations that can occur when excessive use of force occurs:
- Use of excessive force: This is the most obvious type of ethical violation. It occurs when law enforcement officers use more force than is necessary to subdue a suspect or to protect themselves or others.
- Use of force against an unarmed suspect: This is another clear-cut ethical violation. Law enforcement officers should only use force against a suspect who is armed or who poses a threat of serious bodily harm to themselves or others.
- Use of force against a compliant suspect: This is a more subtle ethical violation, but it is still wrong. Law enforcement officers should not use force against a suspect who is not resisting arrest or who is following their instructions.
- Use of force against a suspect who is not a threat: This is the most serious type of ethical violation. Law enforcement officers should never use force against a suspect who is not a threat to themselves or others.