DECEMBER - JANUARY 9GOVERNMENT CIO OUTLOOKWhen we look at the historical challenges law enforcement has faced regarding interactions with other citizens, the prevailing problem pertains to a lack of trust and treating others disrespectfullySound policies, outreach, and `innovative' programming will fall short if there is not a clear foundation upon which to build. It is imperative to change our mindset of thinking of traditional police and community relations. When we picture the community as a separate entity, it becomes easier to disassociate others in our community from ourselves. This holds true in both successes and failures. Law enforcement needs to adapt and accept the mindset that we are part of the community. We are a very sacred part of the community that has the role of protecting and potentially taking the freedom and even the lives of others in the community. This should never be taken lightly. When we accept that we are part of our community, we take ownership of the others we serve. The importance of being honest and treating others with respect, no matter the situation, then builds upon that principle. It doesn't matter whether it is a suspect, a witness, a victim, or just a casual interaction. The failure to treat others with respect inevitably leads to declining situations for all involved. This does not mean that law enforcement's role is to be treated poorly by those they come into contact with. It is just the opposite. By treating others with respect and dignity, law enforcement will garner back respect and build trust in themselves and public safety as a whole. Police need to additionally conduct themselves with integrity, even when they make a mistake. We are human beings and part of being a human being is making mistakes. Ownership of those mistakes is important in building trust with others who rely on public safety to inherently do the right thing. Acknowledgment of a lack of perfection must also be followed by a commitment to improvement to ensure the same mistakes are not repeated. This is a crucial piece of transparency that should be expected of public safety as the norm and not the exception. Respect and integrity are two crucial elements in public safety for the advancement of the profession. As we reflect on where we have been and the mistakes that have been made, find hope in the nobility of the profession. It is an honor to be entrusted with this role by our fellow citizens. We owe it to them and to ourselves to ensure we have a firm foundation to continue this privilege.
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