Under CD 060, what is considered a serious offense for a police officer?

A serious offense for a police officer is defined as any action or behavior that undermines their duties, integrity, and trust placed in them by the public. In this context, neglecting their duties encompasses a range of behaviors that directly affect their ability to perform law enforcement functions effectively and safely. This could include failing to respond to incidents, not maintaining the safety and security of the community, or failing to enforce the law when required. Such neglect can have serious repercussions, not just for the officer’s career but also for public safety.

While other choices may point to misconduct, neglecting duties directly impacts the officer's primary responsibility—upholding the law and protecting citizens. Using excessive force is indeed a serious concern and can lead to significant legal issues, but it also stems from a failure to appropriately exercise their responsibilities. Failing to report to duty can be serious, but neglecting their overarching duties has broader implications for the functioning of law enforcement as a whole. Obstructing a public meeting may be unlawful behavior, but it does not necessarily pertain to the core responsibilities of a police officer in the same way that neglect of duty does.