Police corruption Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words - 1

Police corruption - Research Paper Example It will also point out different types of corruption, examples of cases and some measures being taken by the law enforcement bodies to curb corruption. The known types of corruption occur on different scales, involving different positions of power and also varying in magnitude. Although most states have taken steps to reduce corruption by splitting their governments into executive, legislative and judiciary arms, it is still rampant within the police, which is under the executive arm. Police corruption refers to the specific misconduct by police officers with the intention of realizing personal benefits, including financial and career advancements, by practices that abuse power such as soliciting for bribes, protecting organized prostitution and drug cartels, bearing false witness and prosecuting falsely. Corruption is detrimental to any police force because it is a crime and costs them their integrity and public image. Generally, most corruption practices can be categorized under ei ther petty corruption, grand corruption or systemic corruption, and further classified into their specific types (Mishra, 2006). The differences are rooted in the involved participants, the norms violated by the corrupt act, the wider context in which the corrupt act takes place and its purpose, motive or outcome. It is on such analytical distinctions that the origins and consequences of corruption are explored and tackled. Occurring within government norms and established social structures, petty corruption takes on the smallest level and form, and involves a small number of participants. It thrives in developing countries where government officials are poorly paid and involves exploiting personal connections and giving small bribes to obtain quick services and favors. Grand corruption occurs at top government levels in ways that require large subversions in economic, legal and political systems of a state. Grand corruption does not bear its significance in the involved amount of m oney as much as it does on the level at which it takes place, which is the policy formulation level. Systemic corruption occurs primarily by taking advantage of a process’ or organization’s weakness. Unlike petty corruption which exploits occasional opportunities, systemic corruption is an essential and integrated aspect of the political, social and economic system. Because it is encouraged by factors such as a culture of impunity, monopolistic powers, low pay, discretionary powers and conflicting incentives, systemic corruption is embedded in a broader situation that promotes its sustenance. Characterized by embezzlement, extortion and bribery, it forms a situation where key state processes and organizations are routinely used and dominated by corrupt groups and individuals, leaving people with no options to dealing with the corrupt officials. Police corruption is exhibited in the inappropriate conduct and actions they take in connection with the official duties and r esponsibilities expected of them. Discrimination and miscarriage of justice are largely part of it (Sherman, 1974). Education levels and personalities of the officers involved are significant contribution factors, but the culture of police agencies also plays considerable roles. Misconduct can be predicted by education, where better educated officers are prone to fewer complaints. Police corruption is also promoted by unenforceable laws that govern moral