ASSOCIATE Magazine FBINAA Q3-2024

FBINAA.ORG | Q3 2024

I n recent years, the troubling trend of police engaging in fraudulent activities associated with overtime has increased and become a more significant concern for the profession. Headlines detailing cases of officers misrepresenting hours worked during off-duty assignments are all too common. As a retired law enforcement executive with over 25 years of experience, I find this trend not only disturbing but also indicative of systemic issues within agencies. The consequences of such fraudulent behavior are more severe than a slap on the wrist and often go beyond the involved officer(s), impacting the agency and community as well. Incidents such as these erode public trust in law enforcement – a pillar of effective policing. Even more alarming is the increasing number of officers facing criminal charges and jail time because of off-duty fraudulent actions. Central to these cases is the misrepresentation of hours worked during off-duty assignments. These misrepresentations undermine public trust and open up the possibility for officer(s)

to face charges of tax evasion due to underreported income. Moreover, in some instances, these misrepresentations necessitate the disclosure of impeachable evidence to prosecutors, also known as Brady/Giglio information, which can negate an officer’s credibility as a witness. This could negatively impact their ability to affirm sworn documents, such as search or arrest warrants, or their ability to testify as a witness in criminal courts. An officer may negate their value to their agency if they can no longer effectively testify in court or obtain sworn documents. Compounding the issue is the current landscape of law enforcement agencies facing staffing shortages and budget constraints. Many lack the necessary resources, in terms of staffing and technology, to effectively monitor their officers’ off-duty details. This gap in oversight creates opportunity for fraudulent activities by officers who do not hold themselves to the high standards our profession demands, and our communities deserve. continued on page 42

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