After any bad press, I think it’s important to remember that most of the public to see us for what we are: dedicated, hard-working, and selfless. I thought it would be appropriate to look at my "10 Commandments of Law Enforcement." These are qualities every officer should embody. Please, feel free to add your own.
I pledge to:
- Show respect towards everyone with whom I deal, from the youngest to the oldest, no matter their gender, race, ethnicity, religion, social standing, profession or wealth. By respecting others, I generate respect for myself and my profession.
- Remember that while I might let off steam by cursing or joking at a crime scene, others may view my actions in a different context. I must conduct myself appropriately for the situation with the realization that there are likely both other ears and cameras around.
- Employ officer discretion in a thoughtful manner while still carrying out my duties to the best of my abilities. Knowing when to bend a little and when to hold firm to is the difference between being a real public servant and a robot.
- Understand that little kindnesses can make a world of difference to others. Taking the time to help those whose source of distress may seem insignificant and beneath the dignity of a sworn officer can make law enforcement a friend for life. (Firefighters didn’t get into their profession to help cats out of trees, but for the owner and others distressed by that situation, those firefighters are heroes. It’s a good lesson to remember.)
- Maintain my uniform so it’s always sharp, clean and squared away and I look as professional as I possibly can when I go to work. That habit should also extend to my workspace, whether it’s a desk or a vehicle. First impressions do matter.
- Keep my skills sharp. I won’t be the officer who regards the range as unnecessary, who fails to keep up with changes in jurisdictional law, who doesn’t practice my defensive tactics. I know that my brothers and sisters in blue depend on me for their own safety and well-being. I will not let them down.
- Remain in top physical condition. I will exercise, eat right as much as my schedule will allow (an occasional hotdog or Twinkie won’t kill me) and stay rested. I will not allow my personal problems to affect my work. If I believe they are becoming an issue, I will seek help, just as I would for a physical condition.
- Refuse to accept anything that goes against departmental policy or could be construed as currying my favor. I will pay for my coffee, my lunch, my purchases, my services, the same as any civilian would.
- Never try to handle my own conflicts by using the powers of my office. I will not pull my badge or my gun or threaten use of my sworn powers when dealing with issues that concern myself or my friends or family. Instead, I will follow departmental protocol.
- Always tell the truth on my reports and during court testimony, never abuse my power, never make an arrest I can’t justify. I will strive to do the honorable thing. I will always be aware that I am granted the legal authority to take away an individual’s most prized possession: his or her freedom. I recognize the gravity of that power and will wield it with honor and dignity.
No one believe police officers are perfect, but the good news is that the vast majority of them already adhere to these Commandments. Because of them, because of you, I am proud to have served in this profession.
Have any commandments of your own? Add them to the comments below.
