2.12.2009

#242 Is Your Reputation Worth $30?

That's Some Fine Police Work
Sgt. Steve Brody, of New York's Morrisville State University police department, stopped each morning to buy a newspaper and pick up a cup of coffee at a store that offers free coffee to cops. He would also stuff a pastry in his coat and not pay for it. He has been charged with petty larceny for allegedly stealing about $30 worth of pastries.
Nice work, Steve. You've demonstrated an appallingly bad lack of judgment in stealing something so inexpensive on top of the fact that the place was giving you free coffee to begin with.

The $30 worth of pastries you've stolen will very likely end up costing you far, far more than $30. Your reputation has been smeared and you'll likely face disciplinary action.

Maybe its crazy of me but I tend to do a little mental calculation anytime I consider committing a crime. Is the payoff greater than the fine and punishment for doing it? In 99% of the instances the answer is no which is exactly as it should be.

Rule #242 is Is Your Reputation Worth $30?

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