Carlos Quevedo
CJ/474
October 9, 2014
Instructor John O'Brien
Ethical Dilemma Paper Police Officers must exemplify as role models not only for the community but for other officers to emulate. Officers such as Captain Newton recently adds two tattoos; one of swastika and a naked woman, it may seem as the officer may be a problem employee. As officers, one must have discipline and must be reprimanded for negative decision making. However, just like all Americans, officers too have rights that one must follow and honor.
Problem Employee or Situation Captain Newton is a problem employee. Newton recently added two tattoos; one of a swastika on one arm and a naked woman on the other arm. Most people may consider a swastika an offensive and a racist tattoo. A naked woman signifies sex and most women would find it quite disrespectful especially someone of law enforcement displays such images. To top it off, at a meeting with the Police Chief, Captain Newton displayed sarcasm regarding the two tattoos. Newton responded to the chief by stating if the chief "tried to control such activity", it would create a "hostile" work environment. (More, H. 2012). Officers must be positive role models, persons of trust and problem solvers not problem givers. In addition, having tattoos such as these may lose respect the community has for officers. The police department may be under fire, due to the fact that Newton is a Captain with the department. A policy regarding tattoos on officers must be updated and regulated with the department in order to remain a positive image in the community.
The Type of Disciplinary Action if Any The police chief would give Captain Newton a verbal warning counseling. In the counseling Captain Newton will be warned that he maintains to display any of his tattoos he will be written up. In the mean while the police department will work on the restriction of displaying tattoos and may have a dress code and uniform requirements. (More, H. 2012). If Captain Newton continues to obey a simple order his job may be on the line. Captain Newton's attitude will have to change as well. He has no right to speak to the Chief sarcastically, more important mentioning "constituting a hostile work environment" if the Chief attempted to control the tattoo issue. (More, H. 2012). Captain Newton must be reminded that he is a leader, and an example that Officers and the community looks up to. Having a tattoo of the swastika may other officers believe Newton is racist and or belongs to the Ku Klutz Klan (KKK). Officers and the public who he serves will dislike and would not like to work with Captain Newton. To include, officers being called for service or help calls may not like to respond if Captain Newton is the one requesting assistance.
Issues and Ramifications Related to Disciplinary Actions When considering disciplinary actions one must take into consideration what will the person affected might want to do. For example, if Captain Newton was to be written up or terminated for the swastika tattoo, he may want to sue the department because he does have rights. He may feel as his rights are being violated. As Newton mentioned he has the right to "display" and "express freedom of speech" according to the first amendment. (www.law.cornell.edu). In
