Case Studies with Questions and Answers
Chapter 12: Future Issues in Criminal Justice Management
It' s Officer Webb' s third day on the job. He was recently promoted as a shift commander in charge of the first shift (7 AM − 3 PM). As a recently promoted supervisor, Officer Webb has been advised that there may be instances of police misconduct among certain officers under his command. Specifically, there are rumors circulating within the department that a number of officers are violating certain police ethics. In addition to the rumors, there have been a number of citizen complaints. Despite the frivolous nature of many these complaints, Officer Webb decides to conduct his own informal investigation. As Officer Webb gathers work-related background information, he discovers a high degree of absenteeism associated with the suspected officers. In light of such, Officer Webb decides to informally discuss the rationale behind these decisions with each officer. Despite his newfound responsibilities, the notion of negative media coverage, publicized allegations of misconduct, and the possibility of civil liability has prompted Officer Webb to take a proactive approach with regard to the possibility of police misconduct.