ACA Code Of Ethics


Preamble

The American correctional Association expects of its members unfailing honesty, respect for the dignity and individuality of human beings and a commitment to professional and compassionate service. To this end, we subscribe to the following principles.
  • Members shall respect and protect the civil and legal rights of all individuals.

  • Members shall treat every professional situation with concern for the welfare of the individuals involved and with no intent to personal gain.

  • Members shall maintain relationships with colleagues to promote mutual respect within the profession and improve the quality of service.

  • Members shall make public criticism of their colleagues or their agencies only when warranted, verifiable, and constructive.

  • Members shall respect the importance of all disciplines within the criminal justice system and work to improve cooperation with each segment.

  • Members shall honor the public's right to information and share information with the public to the extent permitted by law subject to individuals' right to privacy.

  • Members shall respect and protect the right of the public to be safeguarded from criminal activity.

  • Members shall refrain from using their positions to secure personal privileges or advantages.

  • Members shall refrain from allowing personal interest to impair objectivity in the performance of duty while acting in an official capacity.

  • Members shall refrain from entering into any formal or informal activity or agreement which presents a conflict of interest or is inconsistent with the conscientious performance of duties.

  • Members shall refrain from accepting any gifts, services, or favors that is or appears to be improper or implies an obligation inconsistent with the free and objective exercise of professional duties.

  • Members shall clearly differentiate between personal views/statements and views/statements/positions made on behalf of the agency or Association.

  • Members shall report to appropriate authorities any corrupt or unethical behaviors in which there is sufficient evidence to justify review.

  • Members shall refrain from discriminating against any individual because of race, gender, creed, national origin, religious affiliation, age, disability, or any other type of prohibited discrimination.

  • Members shall preserve the integrity of private information; they shall refrain from seeking information on individuals beyond that which is necessary to implement responsibilities and perform their duties; members shall refrain from revealing nonpublic information unless expressly authorized to do so.

  • Members shall make all appointments, promotions, and dismissals in accordance with established civil service rules, applicable contract agreements, and individual merit, rather than furtherance of personal interests.

  • Members shall respect, promote, and contribute to a work place that is safe, healthy, and free of harassment in any form.

Adopted by the Board of Governors and Delegate Assembly in August 1994.