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University of Akron offering new program in law enforcement ethics

The course debuts amid months of unrest in the United States regarding police brutality

AKRON, Ohio — The University of Akron (UA) is working to help educate law enforcement with a new program that explores ethics and morality in law enforcement careers. 

Beginning in the fall semester, the school's philosophy department will offer a brand new certificate examining the complex ins-and-outs of policing. 

“Police work is very intricate, and officers experience a variety of complex situations during their daily work,” said UA Police Capt. Jim Gilbride, J.D. “As first responders, we are often required to act as if we are social workers, drug addiction counselors or mental health professionals. Since we don’t have comprehensive training in those areas, we resort to using ethics to guide our quick decision making.”

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The certificate- comprised of 12 credit hours- will give students a chance to learn about ethics and enhance their own knowledge around subjects including philosophy central to feminism, race, law, and of course, police ethics. 

“Given that law enforcement officers often respond to situations involving racial groups and sexual assaults, thinking critically about race and feminism will enhance their performance,” said Dimitria Gatzia, Ph.D., professor of philosophy,  “these courses are tailored toward law enforcement and provide much-needed tools to handle difficult situations in which members of a community can be harmed.”  

Program participants will begin by learning about law and morality, studying the most pertinent issues that face the United States justice system. 

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UA professors are also currently putting together a seminar for law enforcement officers on the school's campus. 

“This seminar will complement procedural justice and police legitimacy training that members of the UAPD have been going through for the last few years,” said Gilbride. “My hope is that the seminar will provide our officers with another tool to help solve the very complex issues that they face on a regular basis. This will help the department make sure our officers are serving constituents in the best way possible.” 

For more information on the program, click here

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