As we work toward our organizational mission on a daily basis, our primary core values set forth the foundation by which our decisions and actions are based and by which our organization is always guided.
Human Life
We value human life as our most precious resource. In all aspects of our operations, we place our highest priority on the protection of life. This belief is demonstrated in two ways. First, the allocation of resources and the response to demands for service must give top priority to those situations which threaten life. Second, even though society authorizes the police to use deadly force, the use of such force must not only be justified under law, but must be consistent with the philosophy of rational and humane social control.
Public Trust
We value the public’s trust. Citizens, having given up their right to enforce their rights, have invested in their police the highest level of trust. We, in turn, entered into a contractual arrangement with society to uphold that trust. We recognize the expectations of our citizens that we will abide by the Constitution and law, will not abuse our power, will not use our offices for personal or private gain and will carry out our duties with character and competency. The manner in which we treat our citizens, our conduct and actions, both individually and collectively are based upon the high value we place in the public’s trust.
Integrity
We value our integrity. We understand that each of us represents not only our Department but also the law enforcement profession and the government. We are committed to uphold our positions of trust by maintaining the highest moral and ethical standards and demonstrated practices and policies forged by consideration of morally relevant reasons. We acknowledge and accept that our individual conduct, both on and off duty, must be beyond reproach. Our conduct is the same, even when no one is watching. We have the courage to uphold these principles at all times and are proud that they guide us in all we do.
Professionalism
We value professionalism. We are committed to professionalism in all aspects of our operations. Our role is to serve our citizens. As a professional organization, we are guided by the “Law Enforcement Code of Ethics”, and a dedication to treat all people with respect, fairness, and compassion while continually pursuing the highest levels of knowledge, skills, and expertise. We acknowledge that as a professional organization, we must police ourselves. We therefore subscribe and agree to maintain a system to promote the highest level of discipline among our members.
Respect
We recognize the value of individuality and treat all people with dignity. We cherish, defend and protect the rights, liberties and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution. We commit ourselves to treat all human beings with the utmost respect, compassion and concern. We value diversity and commit to an environment in which we recognize the unique skills, knowledge, abilities, and backgrounds of all people. We are consistent in our treatment of all persons.
Teamwork
Through our partnership with the public, we work together to achieve our goal to make our community a safe and inviting place. We value teamwork and commit to cooperative goal achievement through active collaboration and partnerships with the community and with one another. We value the efforts expended in partnering with citizens to identify and impact the true causes of problems in order to solve those problems for the betterment of ourselves, the department, and the community.
Service
We value service and have a commitment to faithfully and selflessly perform our duties. Providing excellent quality service to the community is our primary duty. We have a commitment to prevent crime, reduce the fear of crime and enhance community wellbeing. Our service is responsive, effective, and dependable.
Empowerment
We value the quality of our members and their ability to do the right thing. We encourage our members to make decisions based on our vision, mission, values, and policies at the level closest to the problem.
We ask our members:
Is it right for the community?
Is it the right thing for the North Port Police Department?
Is it legal, ethical and moral?
Is it something you are willing to be accountable for?
Is it consistent with the department’s vision, mission, values and policies?
If the answer to all of these questions is "Yes" - just do it.