Ethical Leadership in a City of Leaders
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Join host Michael Warren on this episode of the Faces of Leadership podcast as he sits down with Chief Ross Swope to explore his extraordinary 43-year career in law enforcement. From his rise through the ranks of the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington D.C. to serving as Chief of Police at the Supreme Court, Chief Swope shares his experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Learn about his pivotal role in national demonstrations, the ethical dilemmas he navigated, and his contributions to creating an ethical police culture. The episode delves into the impact of leadership on organizational ethics, the balancing act of law enforcement duties, and the importance of maintaining public trust and officer accountability. Chief Swope also discusses his influential writings on ethics-based policing and their potential to address issues like excessive force and 'quiet quitting.' This insightful conversation is a must-watch for anyone interested in law enforcement, ethics, and leadership.
Episode Guest
Ross Swope grew up in the world of law enforcement. The son of a cop, he joined the Washington, DC, police force soon after he graduated from the University of Maryland in 1972. Over the next 43 years, he rose through the ranks, ultimately becoming deputy chief of the DC Metropolitan Police Department and then the chief of police of the US Supreme Court.
His many responsibilities included planning, administration, management, investigations, budgeting, and human relations, with an emphasis on leadership. A highly effective law enforcement manager and forward thinker, he pursued continuing education and applied it to every department he served.
In addition to his numerous awards and commendations, he holds three master’s degrees—applied behavioral science; justice, law, and society; and applied criminology—making him the most highly decorated and educated police official in the DC Metropolitan Police Department when he retired.
Ross has been published locally, nationally, and internationally on such topics as community policing, problem-oriented policing, leadership issues, and effective policing strategies. Generally recognized as the creator and author of the seminal work on police ethics, he has been widely cited in major publications on that subject.
He is currently writing a book that details his proven approach to improving law enforcement and restoring an environment of trust, confidence, and cooperation between citizens and police officers.
Also an avid outdoorsman and craftsman, Ross has had his writing and photography featured in adventure magazines. He currently lives in Gambrills, Maryland.
Links and Resources
https://www.rossswopeauthor.com/ethics-based-policing
