Police Deviance

Deviance in Context

Refers to the unique challenges and stress experienced within the policing profession.

The Cop Code

A set of informal rules that govern the behavior of police officers, emphasizing loyalty and aggression.

Blue wall of silence

The unwritten rule among police officers not to report misconduct by fellow officers.

Over-Enthusiastic Policing

When officers exceed legal limits to achieve law enforcement goals.

Dirty Harry Problem

The dilemma of using unethical methods for achieving justice, exemplified by the character Harry Callahan.

Driving while Black (DWB)

The racial profiling practice of targeting Black individuals while driving.

Pretextual Stops

Traffic stops based on minor violations to investigate unrelated criminal activity.

Excessive Force

The use of more physical force than is necessary during police encounters.

War on crime mentality

A mindset that prioritizes aggressive crime-fighting tactics over community relations or due process.

Mooching

Receiving gratuities or favors improperly as a police officer.

Graft

Exploitation of a public role for personal gain, often involving bribery.

Professional Courtesy

The practice of police officers not ticketing fellow officers, considered unethical by many.

Rotten Apple argument

The theory that deviant behavior in policing occurs because of individuals who were problematic prior to their hiring.

Societal Explanations

The idea that public perceptions of crime control can influence police behavior.

Reducing Police Corruption

A set of proposed measures aimed at decreasing misconduct within police departments.