The Ethics of the Monroe County Sheriff's Office

MCSO Star

Code of Ethics

The Office of the Sheriff has long stood for the safety and protection of the citizens it serves. The public, rightfully, can expect professional and courteous service when it so demands.  The image the members of the office present, both on and off duty, serves as a tool for the public to measure the level of professionalism of the Office.  Therefore, it is incumbent upon all members of the Sheriff's Office to guard their actions cautiously and for all personnel to abide by the following Offices’ code of ethics.

"As a member of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, my fundamental duty is to serve mankind; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against deception, the weak against oppression or intimidation and the peaceful against violence or disorder; and to respect the Constitutional rights of all persons to liberty, equality and justice.

I will act in the execution of my duties with integrity, dignity, and honor to merit the trust of the community and the profession, and apply honesty, skill, judgment, and initiative to contribute positively to the well-being of society.

I will treat people with dignity, good faith and equity; without discrimination; and have consideration for the values and cultural sensitivities of all groups within the community affected by my work.

I will follow recognized professional practice, and provide services and advice carefully and diligently only within my areas of competence.

I will develop my knowledge, skills, and expertise continuously through my career; contribute to the collective wisdom of the profession; and actively encourage my associates to do likewise.

I will advise my supervisor of any interest I have which may be, or may be perceived as being, in conflict with the interests of the public I serve or the agency, or which may affect the quality of my services or my impartial judgment.  I will refrain from furthering my own interests when such conflict or perceived conflict arises unless and until I receive direction from my supervisor.

I will keep my private life unsullied as an example to all; maintain courageous calm in the face of danger, scorn, or ridicule; develop self‑restraint; and be constantly mindful of the welfare of others, honest in thought and deed in both my personal and official life. I will be exemplary in observing the laws of the land and the regulations of my agency.  Whatever I see or hear of a confidential nature or that is confided to me in my official capacity will be kept ever secret unless revelation is necessary in the performance of my duty.

I will never act officiously or permit personal feelings, prejudices, animosities or friendships to influence my decisions.  With no compromise for crime and with relentless prosecution of criminals, I will enforce the law courteously and appropriately without unnecessary force or violence and never accepting gratuities.

I recognize the badge of my office as a symbol of public faith, and I accept it as a public trust to be held as long as I am true to the ethics of law enforcement service.  I will constantly strive to achieve these objectives and dedicate myself before God to my chosen profession; law enforcement."