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In law enforcement circles, SADD seems an appropriate acronym to describe an ongoing problem with about one-percent of police officers in the state of Utah.
Among officers charged with investigating and disciplining other cops who break the law or otherwise violate police ethical standards, SADD stands for sex, alcohol, drugs and domestics. Those are the activities that most often get officers in trouble.
Last year the state's Peace Officer Standards and Training Council brought action against 124 officers. So far this year, 88 officers have been accused of misconduct. Most recently, for example, a former narcotics officer had his certification revoked for engaging in a sexual relationship with an informant. Another officer is facing felony drug charges. Typically, there are also cases of lying, driving while intoxicated and malfeasance.
On one hand, it is good to know the law enforcement community is policing itself. By regularly investigating their own and meting out judgment, a strong and important message is being sent that misconduct among cops won't be tolerated.
On the other hand, it is alarming and terribly disconcerting that dozens of those charged with upholding the law, actually violate the law with such reckless abandon. The fact such unbecoming conduct occurs with regularity can honestly be described as SADD.
