Posted by Public corruption is noted here as follows:
A very standard definition of public corruption, used by the World Bank, is the abuse of public power for private benefit.
And,
Morally, the abuse of authority implies some violation of trust, whether it is the trust of the citizen in their officials or the trust of shareholders in their managers.
Here is another link and definition:
Corruption is operationally defined as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain.
Yet another link and definition:
Public corruption involves a breach of public trust and/or abuse of position by federal, state, or local officials and their private sector accomplices.
Performance of public or commercial duties that conflict with law or the needs/best interests of citizen(s).
Here are “Criminal Penalties for Public Corruption/Violations of State Ethics Laws.”
Originally posted 3/27/11