While on his way to the morning shift change meeting with officers, supervising Corrections Officer (CO) Aloi was informed that CO Ruly was transferred from the female side of the jail and would be working on the unit under his command. Upon arriving to the meeting, CO Ruly was laughing and using derogatory comments to refer to some of the female inmates. Supervising CO Aloi stated, "Ok, Ok, that's enough. That's not appropriate or legal, so let's get down to business reviewing facility and inmate issues and get our shift started." As the chatter was winding down, CO Ruly yelled out, "You guys don't know what you are missing on the other side; those chicks love me." He then made an inappropriate sexual gesture and broke out in laughter. Many officers began mumbling, and one stated she did not want to work with Ruly. Supervising CO Aloi settled the group and finished the meeting without further incident. After the meeting, he met with CO Ruly and addressed his behavior and the derogatory comments. Explain the role (function) and responsibilities (tasks) of a Corrections Officer.
• Describe the ethical situation(s) you observed in the scenario.
• Suppose you are the Supervising Corrections Officer; describe what your ethical responsibilities are and what you would say when you meet with CO Ruly. How would you proceed after meeting with CO Ruly.
• Briefly compare and explain why ethical professionalism is essential not only in corrections, but in law enforcement, and the courts as well for the overall functioning of the Criminal Justice System.
