Navigating the Challenges of Dealing with Arrogant Officers Who Misinterpret the Law
As a CO, dealing with arrogant and rule-oriented officers who misinterpret the law they are trying to enforce can be a frustrating and tiresome task. I have encountered my share of these rule-minded individuals inside the fence, often referred to as 'rules lawyers,' who believe they have the upper hand in any situation. However, it is important to understand and navigate these challenges effectively to ensure a harmonious environment.
Addressing Arrogant Rules Lawyers
Rules lawyers often insist on rigid adherence to procedures that they believe are non-negotiable. For example, one CO faced a significant challenge with an officer who demanded a channel check every hour exactly. Channel checks may be important, but they should not be the topmost priority. In most situations, the CO is more concerned with activities such as counting the inmates, handling maintenance requests, or responding to emergencies.
’’You are required to do a channel check – every hour on the hour!!’’ – No, not necessarily. Channel checks are important but take a backseat to other critical activities. ’
Another instance involved an officer who insisted on calling a higher-ranking officer for a minor issue. Such actions not only waste valuable time but also undermine the decision-making authority of the on-duty officer.
Asserting Authority and Making Decisions
’’You have to call for a Sergeant if I tell you to call for one!’’ Not always. As a CO, you are expected to evaluate the situation and manage it using your initiative. Calling for higher authority should only happen if you cannot handle a situation or if it requires a higher-ranking officer's intervention.
It is crucial to maintain professionalism and assert your authority. If you determine that a situation requires higher authority, communicate that to your direct chain of command rather than deferring to a remote or previously mentioned authority figure.
’’You have to let me come out to work as an SSI janitor – Captain XXXX told me I am to work as an SSI.’’ This is a common problem. Ensure that you verify the authenticity and relevance of such instructions. In my experience, I have found many cases where officers are misinformed or are trying to take advantage of situations.This situation focused on verifying the authenticity of the instruction and ensuring that the situation is under control. ’
Conclusion
Dealing with arrogant officers who misinterpret the law can be challenging, but understanding their motivations and maintaining professional demeanor is key. It is essential to make sound decisions based on the situation and ensure that the environment remains safe and orderly. By following established procedures and asserting authority when necessary, you can effectively manage such individuals and maintain a productive work environment.