Law Enforcement Technology

NOV 2014

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46 Law Enforcement Technology November 2014 www.officer.com A F R E S H A P P R O A C H T O M A N A G E M E N T ON YOUR WATCH Carole Moore A 12-year veteran of police work, Carole Moore has served in patrol, forensics, crime prevention and criminal investigations, and has extensive training in many law enforcement disciplines. She is the author of "The Last Place You'd Look: True Stories of Missing Persons and the People Who Search for Them" (Rowman & Littlefield, Spring 2011). She welcomes comments at carolemoore_biz@yahoo.com. Keep up with Moore online: www.carolemoore.com Amazon: www.amazon.com/-/e/ B004APO40S I pledge to: 1 Show respect towards everyone with whom I deal, from the youngest to the oldest, no mat- ter their gender, race, ethnicity, religion, social standing, profession or wealth. By respecting others, I generate respect for myself and my profession. 2 Remember that while I might let off steam by cursing or joking at a crime scene, others may view my actions in a different context. I must conduct myself appropriately for the situa- tion with the realization that there are likely both other ears and cameras around. 3 Employ officer discretion in a thoughtful manner while still carrying out my duties to the best of my abilities. Knowing when to bend a little and when to hold firm is the difference between being a real public servant and a robot. 4 Understand that a little kindnesses can make a world of difference to others. Taking the time to help those whose source of distress may seem insignificant and beneath the dignity of a sworn officer can make law enforcement a friend for life. (Firefighters didn't get into their profession to help cats out of trees, but for those distressed, those firefighters are heroes. It's a good lesson to remember.) 5 Maintain my uniform so it's always sharp, clean and squared away and I look as profes- sional as I possibly can when I go to work. That habit should also extend to my workspace, whether it's a desk or a vehicle. First impressions do matter. 6 Keep my skills sharp. I will regard the range as necessary, keep up with changes in jurisdic- tional law, and will practice my defensive tactics. I know that my brothers and sisters in blue depend on me for their own safety and wellbeing—I will not let them down. 7 Remain in top physical condition. I will exercise, eat right, and stay rested. I will not allow my personal problems to affect my work. If I believe they are becoming an issue, I will seek help, just as I would for a physical condition. 8 Refuse to accept anything that goes against departmental policy or could be construed as currying my favor. I will pay for my coffee, my lunch, my purchases, my services, the same as any civilian would. 9 Never try to handle my own conflicts by using the powers of my office. I will not pull my badge or my gun or threaten use of my sworn powers when dealing with issues that con- cern myself or my friends or family. Instead, I will follow departmental protocol. Always tell the truth on my reports and during court testimony, never abuse my power, never make an arrest I can't justify. I will strive to do the honorable thing. I will always be aware that I am granted the legal authority to take away an individual's most prized possession: his or her freedom. I recognize the gravity of this and will wield it with honor and dignity. No one believes police officers are perfect, but the vast majority already adhere to these ideals. Because of them, because of you, I am proud to have served in this profession. ■ 10 qualities every officer should embody Here are a few ideas on how to show the public that we still are dedicated, hard-working and selfless 10

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