Police deviance is unlikely to be detected by the public. This is because the public does not expect the police to engage in deviant acts, many deviant police acts are isolated from the public's view, citizens may be unaware that they are targets of police deviance, and police often select victims with limited credibility and little power. Police deviance is further facilitated by loose supervision, informal working practices and arrangements between officers and supervisors, and inadequate training for supervisors. The division of labor and specialization creates unique opportunities for police to engage in deviant acts. In addition, limited opportunities for career advancement may tempt police to use illegitimate means for their own advancement.
Internal deviance is guided by the structure of the organization.
Those in positions of power and authority are likely to engage in acts of domination. Individuals with little power in the organization often engage in acts of resistance. The constructing of the law, the process by which law enforcement policies are developed and the manner in which law and policies are executed by police all contribute to a differential victimization of various segments of society. Although deviance can be found in virtually every occupation, the police working environment provides officers with virtually unlimited opportunities to become involved in misconduct. Society has accorded the police certain powers to deal with law violators.