Recommendations

Recommendation 50

MPD should add a written directive that states "dishonesty in any matter of official police business is a terminable offense."

Current:

MPD – Code of Conduct – 3.0 – Integrity states “Honesty and truthfulness are fundamental elements of integrity. It is our duty to earn public trust through consistent works and actions. We are honest in word and deed.” The Code of Conduct also states, “The Chief of Police or the Fire and Police Commission reserves the right to impose discipline up to and including discharge from the department if, after a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation has been conducted, it is determined that a breach of Code has occurred, “ The Code of Conduct Appendix – Disciplinary Decision Process also defines an “intentional error” and states, “Generally, intentional errors will be treated more seriously and carry greater consequences that unintentional errors. Within the framework of intentional errors there are certain behaviors that are entirely inconsistent with the responsibilities of the police profession. The nature of the police responsibility requires that police officers be truthful. It is recognized, however, that it is sometimes difficult to determine if one is being untruthful. A member will face discharge from the department when it is clear that the member is intentionally engaging in an effort to be untruthful.”