Chapter 6: The Code of Silence

Question 1

What does the police profession refer to the unwritten rule that you never report on another colleague’s errors, misconduct, or crimes? What is it called for the fire departments?

Answer 1

code of silence or the blue wall; the brotherhood

Question 2

In 2001, Dr Neal Trautman interviewed 1116 officers from all of the US. How many admitted to covering up the actions of another officer’s misconduct?

Answer 2

532

Question 3

Of the number of officers that admitted to covering up another officer’s misconduct, what percentage was pressured by the officer that had done the misconduct?

Answer 3

47%

Question 4

Of the number of officers that admitted to covering up another officer’s misconduct, what percentage was pressured by someone not directly involved in the misconduct? What percentage were leaders in the organization?

Answer 4

23%; 73%

Question 5

What was the #1 reason officers (41%) had been asked to perpetuate the code of silence?

Answer 5

excessive use of force

Question 6

Unless you are applying for membership in the 10% club, you should never compromise your own integrity and reputation, by adhering to what?

Answer 6

the code of silence

Question 7

Every officer tacitly agrees to uphold the secrecy code in order to claim ____ ____ to the unit or agency which he belongs.

Answer 7

solidarity rights

Question 8

A personal code of ethics that some officers develop in which loyalty to their fellow officers trumps ____ and ____ the community.

Answer 8

serving and protecting

Question 9

The tribal mentality of loyalty to fellow officers of community can be attributed to what three causes?

Answer 9

1. police are an identifiable group with uniforms, badges, and guns
2. this group shares a common way of life
3. the dangers foster an “us against them” mentality

Question 10

Who bears responsibility for the code of silence as opposed to the police subculture?

Answer 10

individuals

Question 11

What are two main reasons that functional employees do not need others to cover up their misconduct or lie for them?

Answer 11

1. well-functioning employees are not involved in misconduct

2. if they do make a mistake, they accept responsibility and own up to their mistake

Question 12

What are three factors that help determine whether a supervisor can ameliorate the effects of the code of silence?

Answer 12

1. whether supervisor is respected
2. whether supervisor is fair and reasonable
3. whether supervisor takes action when issues are brought to his attention

Question 13

What are some steps to be taken by an employee if asked to lie, cover up misconduct, or ignore dysfunctional behavior?

Answer 13

1. take a good look at who is asking you
2. think about the important people in your life
3. get angry that the person thinks so little of you to ask you to jeopardize your career