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 As a Deputy Sheriff, Correction
Officer or Civilian Employee of the Delaware County Sheriff’s
Office, my fundamental obligation is to protect the constitutional
rights and freedoms of the people whom I have been sworn to serve
and protect. I also understand it is my obligation to uphold
the institution of the Office of Sheriff and not allow my conduct to
diminish the integrity of that Office as well as the character of
the Sheriff.
Although I realize the way I
choose to conduct my private affairs is generally a personal freedom, I
realize that I will make personal sacrifices as part of my
employment with the Office of Sheriff. Moreover, I further
realize I must accept responsibility for my actions, as well as
my inactions, both on duty and off. I also realize that my behavior
is closely scrutinized by the public at large and that the
consequences of my actions have the capability of bringing either
respect or disrespect on my employer, my fellow employees and the
Office of Sheriff.
I vow to perform all of my duties
in a professional and competent manner. I will be courageous in the
face of danger; yet exercise restraint in the use of my power and
authority to this, the ultimate public trust. I accept the challenge
to consistently strive to achieve excellence and in so doing, to
obtain the necessary knowledge and skills associated with my duties.
I will keep myself physically fit and mentally alert; and thus
capable of performing my duties at the caliber expected of one in my
position.
In the course of my duties I
will be honest and truthful and not mislead those dependent upon my
honesty. I will obey those very laws that I have sworn to uphold. I
will seek affirmative ways to comply with the standards of my
department and the lawful directions of my supervisors.
I vow to treat others with
courtesy at all times. I consider it to be a professional weakness
to allow another’s behavior to dictate my response. I will not allow
others’ actions or failings to excuse me from performing my duties
in a responsible and professional manner.
Although I will endeavor to
empathize with the people with whom I come into daily contact, I
will not allow my personal feelings, prejudices, animosities, or
friendships to influence the discretionary authority with which I
have been entrusted. I will consciously seek ways to avoid any
conflicts or potential conflicts of interest that have the
capability of compromising either my official authority or the
public’s image.
I understand that my personal
character and conduct must be beyond reproach, both on and off duty.
I will not befriend or associate with known criminals, inmates or
former inmates of any institution, or other people of questionable
moral character. Further, I will not associate with
individuals that may appear to create a conflict with my
professional obligations or appearance of conflict with the values
associated with the Office of Sheriff. This is to include
personal relationships, social acquaintances, various mediums of
social media, etc... I will only allow myself to be surrounded
by individuals of strong moral character so as to not jeopardize the
honor of the Office of Sheriff, which I am sworn to uphold and
protect.
In my position, I hold the
inherent expectation that the public’s trust is well placed in my
capability and good judgment. I do no take this trust lightly. As
long as I remain in my position, I will dedicate myself to
preserving this trust and in so doing uphold and promote the honor
and lofty
ideals established by the Office of Sheriff. |
