Many supervisors lose their jobs or are demoted. Others are more fortunate, yet may never be promoted again. Finding your name or picture on television or the focus of a newspaper story about corruption is an overwhelming public humiliation for any officer. Lastly, two recent independent studies confirm that more officers die from suicide than homicide. One study found the police suicide rate to be eight times that of murder.
Some officers do so because they have found themselves involved with some type of misconduct.
Leadership commitment is a step that begins with top administrators, yet never ends. It is the foundation upon which ethics will become a way of life. Led by the chief administrator, the commitment must be strong and unyielding. All aspects of the organization must be guided by the mission statement, organizational goals, and a commitment to ethical standards to guide all efforts toward achievement of the mission. The courage to take the first step and having a sincere commitment.