Police corruption is a severe crime that can lead to adverse consequences for the officer-criminals and society. The documentary “Seven Five” shows the story of one of the most criminal police officers Michael Dowd. His list of crimes includes such types of corruption as bribes, theft, and burglary. His crimes involved drugs – cover for dealers and personal use. Dowd’s actions were motivated by money and led to neglect of duty. Although officers must protect societies, the film showed that police culture could cause crime.
Looking at Dowd’s crimes, one can distinguish the severe consequences of corruption. This officer managed to create pervasive organized corruption through the involvement of colleagues, in particular his partner. Such behavior carries significant costs – undermining the professionalism of the police and public confidence in law enforcement agencies, spreading a crime, and punishing criminal officers. In Dowd’s case, it is remarkable that when the court asked the man about who he would protect – drug dealers or society – Dowd preferred first (NeilyD11, 2018). Such a choice of officer costs the lives of many civilians.
Applying various theories to the Michael Dowd case, one can distinguish several factors contributing to corruption. In particular, using neighborhood explanations, it is worth noting that officers worked in an area with high crime rates and did not feel appreciated for their work. The nature of police work provided significant opportunities for additional earnings, and the police organization could not give sufficient supervision. The most influential factor was the police subculture – officers formed unique connections and attachments. They viewed a good police officer as someone who could cover for a partner regardless of the circumstances, even in crime.
Preventing corruption is an important task, and there are several strategies to achieve the goal. It is necessary to provide strong leadership that does not support crimes, establish strict rules and regulations, establish a supervisor, and conduct investigations inside law enforcement agencies. It is vital to change the culture aimed not only at supporting partners but also at protecting society. Independent crime investigations are needed outside the system, and a political and social environment for honesty is maintained. Thus, corruption among the police is a crime with severe consequences, and it is essential to direct efforts to prevent it.
Reference
NeilyD11. (2018). 75th precinct NYPD gangsta cops [Video]. YouTube. Web.