Ethical Issues: Criminal justice and Private Security

Ethical Issues: Criminal justice and Private Security

It is a requirement by law, that police officers and all other members of the criminal justice system uphold high standards of ethics at work and also off duty. As in any other areas of society, this department also faces many ethical dilemmas. The highest number of ethical issues are as a result of the use of excessive or brutal force. Although it may prove necessary to use some level of force at specific moments, it is imperative that law enforcers ensure that all their actions are justifiable and that they do not violate the rights of others (Campbellsville University, 2019). Ethnic profiling is another ethical concern that significantly affects the system. Here, some officers may fall into the temptation of subscribing to invalid assumptions and stereotypes that may influence them to generalize particular groups. Also, it is a requirement that investigators treat every case differently and, that they act impartially in all situations

As a professional security officer, addressing these issues would start by introducing diversity practices in the department, and cultivate respect for people across all backgrounds. Also, in the quest to avoid unnecessary frictions, it would be imperative that law enforcers work hand in hand with members of society to enhance community policing and prevent issues like profiling.

Over the years, utilitarian ethics has become an indispensable tool in dispensing justice. Its influence runs from the justification of intimidation and coercion of suspects in the name of the greater good, to the administering of sentences to criminals in a bid to bring more favorable outcomes to the community in the future. In criminal justice, utilitarianism function to strengthen deterrence, and in the process, increase the level of happiness in society (Jrank, 2019).

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References

Campbellsville University. (2019). Removing the Blindfold: Ethics in Criminal Justice. Retrieved from https://online.campbellsville.edu/criminal-justice/ethics-in-criminal-justice/

Jrank. (2019). Punishment – Theories of Punishment. Retrieved from https://law.jrank.org/pages/9576/Punishment-THEORIES-PUNISHMENT.html