Problem Solving

Please read the following two ethical decision making scenarios: The Room at the End of the Hall and Supercop. Each scenario has a number of questions that need to be answered. Please read the questions carefully and answer each as thoroughly and accurately as possible. Both decision making scenarios are provided in the Module.

The Room at the End of the Hall

Is this situation a university or police matter? Why? Does the fact that the young girl seems to have a “reputation” make a difference?
Are you subject to any liability issues in this case?
What do you feel would be a responsible and just outcome to this case? What additional information would you need in order to make an accurate assessment?
Super Cop

Discuss the arguments of both sides for using such investigative techniques. What would you do in this situation?
How could a criminal investigator develop informants without using money or “promises”?
In you opinion, when does a police officer have justification in “throwing back the little fish” in favor of apprehending serious offenders? Explain your answer.

find the cost of your paper

Sample Answer

 

 

 

Ethical Decision Making Scenarios:

The Room at the End of the Hall:

1. University or Police Matter?:

This situation likely falls under both university and police jurisdiction.

  • University jurisdiction: As the incident happened on campus, university policies regarding harassment, assault, and student conduct would apply. The university has a responsibility to provide a safe environment for all students and conduct investigations into potential violations of its policies.
  • Police jurisdiction: If the alleged assault constitutes a crime (assault and battery, sexual assault), the police also have jurisdiction to investigate and potentially press charges.

Full Answer Section

 

 

  1. Does the Girl’s Reputation Matter?:

No, the young girl’s “reputation” should not play a role in determining the validity of her claims. Every individual deserves a fair and thorough investigation regardless of their past behavior or reputation. Judging her based on rumors or assumptions could lead to biases and prevent uncovering the truth.

  1. Liability Issues:

As a university employee, you potentially face liability issues if you:

  • Fail to report suspected abuse or neglect (mandatory reporting laws may apply).
  • Take actions that further endanger the student or obstruct an investigation.
  • Handle the situation inappropriately, leading to further harm or injustice.
  1. Responsible and Just Outcome:
  • Prioritize the student’s safety and well-being. Ensure she receives emotional and medical support if needed.
  • Report the incident to the appropriate authorities (both university and potentially police) following established protocols.
  • Cooperate fully with investigations and provide any relevant information.
  • Maintain confidentiality to protect the privacy of both individuals involved.

Additional Information Needed:

  • Nature and details of the alleged assault.
  • Witnesses or evidence corroborating the claims.
  • Previous interactions or reports involving either individual.
  • Any medical examination results.

Supercop:

  1. Arguments for/against the Techniques:

For:

  • Increased intelligence: Informants can provide valuable information about criminal activities that might be otherwise unattainable.
  • Apprehension of major criminals: Targeting bigger fish might dismantle entire criminal networks and prevent future harm.
  • Reduced crime overall: The success of these techniques could deter future criminal activity.

Against:

  • Ethical concerns: Entrapment, coercion, and manipulation of vulnerable individuals raise ethical and legal issues.
  • Erosion of public trust: Overly aggressive tactics can damage police-community relations and undermine public trust.
  • Potential for wrongful convictions: Pressuring informants for information could lead to false accusations and convictions.
  1. My Choice:

I would not endorse the use of such techniques due to the ethical and legal concerns outweighing the potential benefits. Alternative investigative methods that prioritize ethical conduct and respect for individual rights should be explored.

  1. Developing Informants Without Money or Promises:
  • Building trust and relationships: Long-term engagement with vulnerable communities to understand their needs and concerns.
  • Offering support and resources: Connecting individuals with social services, addiction treatment, or other forms of assistance.
  • Appealing to their conscience: Highlighting the negative impact of the criminal activity on society and offering a chance to make amends.
  1. Justification for “Throwing Back Little Fish”:

This practice is highly controversial and requires careful consideration. Potential justifications include:

  • Limited resources: Focusing on major criminals might be more efficient with limited manpower and resources.
  • Targeting high-impact crimes: Prioritizing crimes with significant societal harm over minor offenses.
  • Negotiating information for larger busts: Offering leniency in exchange for critical information leading to bigger criminals.

However, these justifications need to be balanced against the potential for:

  • Abuse of power: Selective enforcement and discriminatory practices against marginalized communities.
  • Perpetuating a cycle of crime: Failing to address root causes of crime or offer rehabilitation opportunities.
  • Undermining the justice system: Compromising due process and fairness for potentially minor offenders.

Ultimately, the decision to “throw back the little fish” should be made on a case-by-case basis with careful consideration of the specific circumstances and potential consequences.

Remember, these are complex scenarios with no easy answers. My responses aim to provide various perspectives and considerations for making informed ethical decisions.

 

This question has been answered.

Get Answer