You witness another officer stealing candy while on duty. What is your course of action?

Reporting the officer to your supervisor is the most appropriate course of action in this scenario. As a law enforcement officer, you are held to high ethical standards and are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the department. Witnessing another officer engaging in theft, even if it seems minor, undermines public trust and can erode the credibility of the entire police force.

When you report the incident to your supervisor, you ensure that the behavior is addressed appropriately. This action not only promotes accountability but also protects you and your department from potential repercussions. Addressing misconduct is vital for fostering a culture of professional conduct within the police force.

While confronting the officer directly might seem like a proactive choice, it could lead to confrontation or retaliation, and it may not address the issue adequately within the chain of command. Ignoring the behavior fails to uphold the standards of the profession and may allow misconduct to continue unchecked. Similarly, waiting to see if it happens again delays necessary action, which is not in the best interest of maintaining ethical standards.