The NJ Police Chief Magazine Volume 26, Number 2 | Page 19

The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | October 2019
Continued from previous page
What is your level of commitment to the Professional Standards Division of your agency? Do you set the example for everyone
else or do you live by the adage that they should do as you say not as you do? Do you require strict adherence to the rules?
Do you stand behind officers who are falsely accused of wrongdoing or do you let them get thrown to the wolves because of
political, media, or public pressure? Are you willing to impose discipline fairly to favorites and problem employees? Do you
believe in a system of progressive discipline that recognizes the value of coaching, counseling, and mentoring as a corrective
measure? Leadership holds everyone, especially you, to the highest standards of behavior. Police officers have the statutory
authority to take away someone's freedom by placing them under arrest; and in those certain situations, the right to use
deadly force. The more authority given to someone requires their commitment to not abuse that authority.
Unique challenges face the Police Chiefs of today. With the decrease in the public's support of the police displayed prominently
in the media, issues of recruitment and retention of police officers have become increasingly complex and problematic. I
remember the days when hundreds of applicants would sign up to test for one or two openings. I remember when children
were taught that police officers were their friends. Now uniformed officers taking a meal break make other patrons
uncomfortable. I remember when the police were respected members of the community. Now it is "funny" when an officer is
doused with water. I remember when we were all blue. Now it seems the color of our skin matters more to some. Leadership
has never been more critical to our survival. You must be the leader at all times, in all circumstances whether good or bad,
without question or compromise, and with integrity, honor, dedication, and service to all. The agency must not be led by
anyone or anything else but you; and you must never sink like lead especially when things seem overwhelming. Too much is
at stake.
1 Police Chiefs In-Service entitled "Leadership and Management: Past, Present, and Future" presented by William S. Westfall on Thursday, September 20, 2007.
2 Even though this is an article focusing on Police Chiefs, we must not ever forget our firefighters, EMTs, and our Military who face equally dangerous situations with selfless
bravery everyday.
Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers to The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine
are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The New Jersey State Association of
Chiefs of Police, its officers, or employees. The primary purpose of this publication is to educate and inform.
This publication does not constitute legal or other professional services or advice.
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