What does "ethical fitness" require from an officer?

The concept of "ethical fitness" emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong moral compass and engaging in thoughtful reflection about ethical dilemmas that may arise in the course of policing. Regularly thinking through important issues enables officers to assess situations critically, make informed decisions, and act in a way that upholds the law and community standards. This active engagement is essential for building trust within the community, ensuring accountability, and enhancing the overall integrity of the policing profession.

By contrast, developing a passive mentality about policing would hinder an officer's ability to address complex ethical challenges effectively, while avoiding decision-making could lead to indecisiveness in crucial situations where quick judgment is necessary. Similarly, always being assertive in opinions without consideration for others can foster conflict and undermine collaborative problem-solving within the team and community. Thus, the call to regularly think through important issues aligns closely with the responsibilities of an officer to act ethically and make choices that reflect justice and fairness.