The research literature defines police deviance in several ways including the excessive use of force; misconduct related to laws, rules, and operating procedures; and corruption. These definitions focus on many crucial behavioral problems, but they do not include such behaviors as discrimination, verbal mistreatment, and sexual harassment. Therefore, an alternative typology is more appropriate. It focuses on occupational deviance; criminal and noncriminal misconduct that occurs during the course of normal work activities or under the guise of the police officer's authority. The second element in the typology is the abuse of authority which is any action that tends to injure, insult, or violate any inherent legal right of a citizen. This abuse includes physical abuse, psychological abuse, and violation of a person's rights. Occupational deviance focuses on how an officer performs as an organizational member, whereas the abuse of authority emphasizes actions against citizens. This typology provides a basis for functionally examining improper police behavior. Diagram, 11 references, and 5 study questions