This competency assessment assesses the following Outcome(s):
CJ340-6: Evaluate noble cause corruption within law enforcement.
Video Analyses
Noble cause corruption follows the teleological model of ethics. The approach emphasizes “good ends” and is a product of police officer “overinvestment” in
their work. Police officers believe that in foregoing established legal procedures, they will more effectively remove criminals from the street and protect the
public from harm. Examples of noble cause corruption include falsifying reports, planting or fabricating evidence, and/or exceeding or abusing lawful
authority. In doing so, police officers believe that a desirable end is achieved (Martinelli, 2006).
Before starting this assignment, be sure you have read the Martinelli article titled “Unconstitutional Policing.” You should also view the following video
segments regarding police practices.
Video 1: NYPD Frisk Program: Noble Cause Corruption
Video 2: Washington Police Caught Speeding
Video 3: Video Shows White Cop in Violent Confrontation with Black Motorist
Compose a 3- to 5-page essay that examines the merit of the police action. In your essay, please examine and apply concepts from the course that are
relevant to the actions demonstrated by the police officers depicted.
Your essay should accomplish the following:
Identify whether the behavior is ethical or unethical.
If ethical, what greater purpose or law enforcement responsibility does it serve to accomplish and why?
If the action is unethical, why is it unethical, and why does it not serve a law enforcement responsibility or tasking?
What theory or theories could be applied to either the ethical or unethical action or approach adopted by the police officer(s)?
The completed essay should be a minimum of 3 but no more than 5 pages in length. The essay should examine the action depicted and its merits, and
effectively integrate ethical concepts and theory into your analysis. Outside research and APA style are necessary components of the essay.
References
NYPD’s stop-and-frisk: Racial profiling or ‘proactive policing’? [Video file]. (2013, May 1). ABC News. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=8jqXeW5C324
Video shows white cop in violent confrontation with black motorist. (2016, July 22). CBS News. Retrieved from https://www.wibw.com/content/news/Videoshows-white-cop-in-violent-confrontation-with-black-motorist-387979432.html
Washington police caught speeding past state troopers [Video file]. (2014, October 10). ABC News. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?
