The participants actually created the scenarios for use in the learning process. This forum covered actual cases of alleged police misconduct and proper conduct. The definitions of ethics and integrity are covered thoroughly. Ethics and integrity are the cornerstones of the department's ability to serve the public interest. They are also the cornerstones of developing, earning and maintaining the trust and respect of the citizens of the town of Brookline.
Personal responsibility is important for every member of the department.
If mediocrity is allowed to become the normal operating procedure for a department then the ethics and integrity of the department are compromised. Statistics were presented to the class concerning recent surveys completed by state agencies polling the public on police behavior. Also discussed in the class were the Massachusetts conflict of interest laws. Officers reviewed what is acceptable and unacceptable in terms of accepting gifts, free food and other services because of the position that they hold. In closing the officers were handed surveys to be completed at home anonymously.