You are working the 3-11pm shift and Sgt. Smith wants to celebrate the end of a successful first week on the job and recommends Mary’s a very popular but expensive restaurant. You protest a little because expensive meals are definitely not in the budget. Sgt. Smith won’t take no for an answer and says all officers eat there and besides it’s already covered. After being seated, the owner, Mary comes out to meet and greet you and Sgt. Smith. Mary says please order anything you like it’s on the house. You insist on paying, but at the end of a fabulous meal there is no bill. You have an uneasy feeling about not paying and violating Department policy. Sgt. Smith says stop worrying about it but if it makes you feel better leave a tip. You drop a $20 on the table and leave, but still do not feel any better about the situation.
About a week later, you get a message to call Mary. She asks about the meal and thanks you for dining there and oh by the way from your conversation recalled that you worked at the Sheriff’s Department prior to joining MPD. Mary asks if you wouldn’t mind calling one of your old friends at the Sheriff’s Department and “fixing” a ticket that she received in the County for accidently rushing to get to a wedding last Saturday?
*How do you respond to Mary’s request?
*What, if any will be the ramifications of your response?
*How will you handle similar situations regarding accepting free food or items in the future?
In response to Mary's request, I would explain to her that as a police officer, it is against ethical and professional standards to use my position to "fix" tickets or provide any special treatment. I would kindly inform her that I cannot fulfill her request and suggest that she follows the appropriate legal process to address the ticket she received.
The ramifications of my response may vary. Mary might be disappointed or frustrated, but it is important to uphold the principles of fairness and integrity in law enforcement. There is a possibility that Mary may complain or express dissatisfaction, but as long as I have acted in accordance with department policies and the law, there should not be any significant negative consequences.
To handle similar situations regarding accepting free food or items in the future, I would abide by department policies and guidelines. I would politely decline any offers for freebies while on duty, explaining that it goes against policy. If I find myself in a situation where refusing may be difficult, I would politely accept but offer to pay for the items myself to avoid any conflicts of interest or ethical concerns. It is important to maintain professionalism, fairness, and impartiality in all aspects of my work as a police officer.