"Nine types of police corruption are noted in academic literature."
Eight of these issues are readily recognized by officers and the public without much qualification, but what about the first one?
Kickbacks.
Really?
Blue Line May/June 2024 (page 8)
"Corruption of authority – attaining perks without contravening the law, such as receiving free meals, beverages and services.
Kickbacks – goods, services or money obtained for business referrals promoting a company or individual."
It was -20 with blowing snow impeding road visibility. An RCMP officer was in a PC idling on the side of the road with the emergency lights flashing. The Member was evaluating the situation to determine whether to close the road. I pulled up behind him in my pick-up, engaged my emergency lights (which he saw), walked up to him. He rolled down the window and with a giant smile took the Tim Horton's double double and two yeast donuts.
On another occasion the small community purchased each Member a Police Pro pen with her/his name engraved and hosted a wine and cheese at a local hotel along with our MLA, MP and town council.
We never thought our acts of kindness and appreciation to be in violation of a code of conduct.
We still don't. One Member commented about the detachment commander's directive not to accept our gifts of appreciation as, "I eat the evidence".
Opportunistic theft – stealing from people who have been arrested, engaged in accidents, or from victims or deceased individuals.
Turning a blind eye – bribes undertaken for ignoring criminal activity.
Protection of illegal activities – protecting criminal enterprises and organized crime engaged in illegal activities such as drugs, prostitution rings, sex trafficking, illegal gambling, etc.
Fixing – undermining investigations at the behest of criminals.
Direct criminal activities – engaging in a crime against individual(s).
Internal payoffs – when promotions, annual leave, are “bought”.
Adding or planting evidence.
I was never the recipient of any largess from citizens and find this post quite endearing. It brings thoughts of a caring and supportive public and downplays the Defund Police movement.