Ex-Herald crime writer Michele McPhee hasn't completely abandoned print journalism for the joys of radio--which include sharing the booth with media maven Mayor Menino. She has a lengthy (4000+ words) and well-sourced piece in the newest issue of Boston Magazine that brings perspective and insight to the much-chronicled troubles of the Boston Police Department.

The force's legitimacy has been crippled by a string of recent scandals, some of which McPhee recounts. But she's also able to provide an interesting behind-the-scenes look at the secretive anti-corruption unit that is responsible for weeding out the most serious offenders within the department.

Finding criminal action amongst the officers isn't always the hard part--getting rid of identified problem employees involves multiple hurdles. Plus, McPhee shows that deficiencies in the hiring and training of officers and the temptations (money, drugs, power) of police work make corruption inevitable.

A good city needs clean officers and engaged journalists--this piece is definitely a step in the right direction.