Corruption in policing is a criminological phenomenon that is regularly misconstrued– wether as a case of independently-operating “rotten-apples” or as a passive system of anomic organizational culture. This article seeks to reframe this passive interpretation as an organized process of selective recruitment, proving corruption is a systemic issue deeply ingrained in law enforcement culture.
Police corruption is not just about officers abusing their power for personal gain– it’s about the exploitation of trust. When officials who are sworn to uphold the law break it, they undermine the meaning of justice in our society.
Then origin of corruption is extremely challenging to determine, primarily because it is a customary principle of a dangerously oppressive system. There is an insidious culture of silence in law enforcement agencies, commonly referred to as “the blue wall of silence.” This code of conduct makes officers reluctant to testify against colleagues regardless of the violence, harm, and pain they may have caused. This code of silence breeds an environment where corruption is able to fester.
Knowing this level of corruption infiltrates protective services across the country is extremely important, but it is even more imperative to understand the detrimental impact it has on the United States.
One of the most damaging impacts of police corruption is the erosion of trust it causes between law enforcement and the community they are expected to serve. For many communities, especially ones who face systematic discrimination and oppression, view police as adversaries instead of protectors. This mistrust has deep historical roots in America, as law enforcement was utilized to further oppress specific racial groups and social classes. This is still a pressing issue today, where police brutality, racial profiling, and discriminatory practices continue to plague this country.
The valid distrust communities have in law enforcement creates a major obstacle for them: the ability to police effectively. This distrust leads to less crimes being reported, less public cooperation, and less tips from community members that could aid in police investigations. These cons make it harder for officers to solve cases, prevent crime, and maintain public safety.
For not just communities’ sake, but also members of law enforcement, criminal justice reform is imperative to progressing as a society. Police structures, systems, and incentives that protect corruption need to be changed. Although most ideas are still in contemporary stages, they are important to understand.
At the top of this list, there needs to be an implementation of stronger accountability measures. This not only means stronger supervision in the department themselves, but the use of independent or private investigators to address internal issues. Free from the influence of “the blue wall of silence,” this incentive ensures officers who engage in illegal or unethical behavior are held accountable regardless of their rank or status within the department.
In addition to a need for accountability, it is extremely important for reforms to address transparency within police departments and communities. The public has a right to know how officers are trained, how they are disciplined for misconduct, and how resources are allocated within their department. Increasing transparency will help rebuild trust with the community, and inspire officials to operate these agencies in the best interest for the public.
On top of transparency, law enforcement agencies must prioritize de-escalation tactics and community policing. Officers need to be equipped with the tools and skills to engage with citizens in ways that promote understanding and resolve conflict peacefully. Community policing, where officers build relationships with residents and work together to solve problems, has been shown to reduce crime and improve community relations.
Finally, this country must address one of the most publicized issues in modern day policing: persistent racial disparities and discrimination. Studies have consistently shown that Black Americans, Latinx communities, and other people of color are disproportionately impacted by police violence and racial profiling. Policing policies and practices must be reformed to equal protection under the law, regardless of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.
The issue of police corruption in the United States is not an issue that can be ignored or brushed to the side. Although only a few needs for reform were mentioned, there is a frighteningly long list that extends far beyond most individual’s expectations.
To combat these lethal issues, we must demand accountability, transparency, and amendments to the way law enforcement agencies currently function. If we truly believe in justice, then we must not only hold those who abuse their power accountable but also work to build a system that ensures safety and fairness for everyone, regardless of their identity.
