The ACA Code Of Ethics In The Criminal Justice System

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The correctional arm of the criminal justice system is extremely important to the community that it serves. Having a place to house those who have committed crimes keeps those communities safe and protected. With that being said, correctional facilities should abide by the code of ethics or something similar to what has been adopted from the American Correctional Association (ACA). Correctional officers adhere to a code of ethics and professional conduct, which is a set of standards pertaining to morals and the effective discharge of duties. The ACA Code of Ethics, adopted in 1994, outlined the association 's expectations that its members display honesty, respect and a commitment to professionalism in their work. This paper will discuss how …show more content…
This code lays the foundation for correctional facilities to establish policies and procedures. If a policy is created and it is in line with the code of ethics, then when called into question, the correctional facility should not face liability. Correctional officers work in a stressful environment, facing the constant threat of assault by prisoners. ACA 's Code of Ethics requires that correctional officers respect the civil and legal rights of all people, and refrain from any form of discrimination, including racial, gender, religious or national origin. The ACA code also prohibits correctional officers from using their positions for personal gain and from accepting gifts or favors that might imply obligations that are inconsistent with professional duties. These statements are very similar to the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics that law enforcement officers are mandated to learn.

The correctional officer code of ethics outlines expectations for treating prisoners and also develops professionalism among those working within correctional facility. The ACA code of ethics states that members should only make public criticism of their agencies when such criticism is verifiable, constructive, and warranted. In addition, the code requires correctional officers and others to report corruption and unethical behavior to the proper
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They need to know that there are systems in place to maintain conduct and discipline, not only among the prisoners but by the correctional staff. Establishing policies and procedures is the way that keeps employees aware of what is expected of their work performance. Having a code of ethics to rely on helps the administrators of correctional facilities to create policies in such a way as to keep the treatment of prisoners appropriate as well as establish a positive working relationship among other prison

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