Please prepare a short response to each numbered statement.
1. B. Hernandez
The City of Miami Police Department has a detailed code of ethics and standard working procedures that tell officers how to act and make decisions. “20 Questions to Ask About Your Code of Conduct” by Joe Murphy and Wen Swenson can be used to test this ethics code to ensure it is solid and valuable. Seven of those questions were used to look at the code for the Miami Police Department:
Does the code address conflicts of interest? The Miami Police Department’s code stresses honesty and integrity, especially in areas where there is a chance of a conflict of interest, like working with money and people. Officers are supposed to stay away from events that could make them less fair or objective.
Does the code provide clear guidance on ethical decision-making? The code describes specific situations and gives police step-by-step instructions to follow. This makes sure that moral concerns are part of their daily work. This includes rules about how to use force, deal with proof, and talk to people in the community.
Is there a mechanism for reporting unethical behavior? The Miami Police Department has set up straightforward ways for people to report illegal behavior. For example, an Internal Affairs Section’s job is to look into complaints and ensure people are held accountable. This makes police and the public more likely to report violations without worrying about getting in trouble.
2. C. Pierce
The Tennessee Ethical Standards for Officials and Employees for Public Officers and Employees can be found here: https://sos-tn-gov-files.tnsosfiles.com/Tennessee_Code_Title_8_Chapter_17_-%20Ethical%20Standards.pdf
I found an article that presented as the Code of Conduct, but felt the above article would be more fitting.
Seven Questions
Does the code cover newly developing risks?
No, the file has not been updated and is from 2014. While the information is relevant, it does not discuss the use of newer technology, such as AI, computer use, data privacy, reporting violations, fairness, and many other aspects.
Does the code include examples?
No examples are included. It would be helpful if examples were included.
Is the format inviting and effective?
Yes, the format is inviting and effective, but it needs more detailed. It is organized well and properly formatted. It gives information on definitions needed, but for the “History” section, it does not relay back to any information to the normal reader.
Does the code lead to other information sources?
Yes, it references back to Acts 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.) and specific chapters but there is no cited source so it is not helpful.
Is the code translated?
I have not found this document translated in other languages; I have found other Code of Ethics documents from Tennessee for Social Workers translated into Spanish.
Does the code go to all employees?
Yes, it goes to all officials and employees in the public sector at all levels from my understanding.
Is your code ethical and legal?
While I don’t have a degree in law, I have read the information and I don’t see anything that is not ethical or not legal.
3. E. Jones
Georgia state ethics code overview using Joe Murphy and Wen Swenson list of questions.
1. Does the code cover newly developing risks?
After reviewing the ethics code, it was last signed April 1, 2021, by the Georgia governor Brian Kemp, it does specifically cover newly updates but rely on updates, evolving situations, or recommendations from agencies to address any legal issues to consider when updating. If new issues arise not covered by the current ethics code will require the agency to consult their ethics officer or legal counsel.
2. What do you tell employees about raising questions?
Any questions being raised should be discussed to maintain transparency and ethical conduct. Some key points discovered is employees should be able to openly communicate by asking questions without fear or reprisal and encourage an open-door policy. The whistleblower protection is also available to inform employees about whistleblower protections and being able to suspect wrongdoing and report it without fear of retaliation. Georgia has an ethics hotline where employees are free to use as a reporting mechanism allowing confidential reporting. Regular training will help to navigate conflicts of interest or misuse of resources. Open communication allows agencies to foster a culture of integrity.
3. Do employees certify to the code?
Yes, employees certify to code by reading and acknowledging ethical guidelines. This reinforces commitment to high standards of conduct.
