Bribery and Corruption Casebook: The View from Under the Table

CHAPTER 31

Power Corrupts and Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely

JIM CALI

Steven Griffin spent most of his life earning slightly more than minimum wage while being employed at a variety of fast-food restaurants, convenience stores and gas stations. He was a hard worker who routinely put in 60 to 70 hours per week, often working nights, weekends and holidays. Steven was very dissatisfied with his current situation but, with only a high school diploma, his career opportunities were limited.

Steven had been working at a convenience store near the county jail for approximately two years and was acquainted with many of the jail’s employees. One day, while working a double shift, he began complaining about his job to one of his regular customers from the jail. The jail guard listened to Steven’s temper tantrum while he carefully selected his morning doughnuts and prepared his extra-large coffee with four servings of hazelnut creamer. As the guard paid for his breakfast, he told Steven, “Hey, man, why don’t you come work at the jail? I know they’re looking to fill a supervisor position in the inmate commissary.” Steven laughed so hard he began snorting like a pig. He was able to choke out, “Who, me? Work in the jail? I am not a cop.” The guard explained the supervisor was a civilian position and that running the commissary would be like running a convenience store.

After working his third double shift in seven days, Steven called in sick. He polished his shoes, put on his best shirt ...