Barrett's deal with Salway
OK, I know the deal they struck in episode 3 was corrupt but the practicalities of it are a good idea.
- before the deal, the police were wasting huge resources in trying to catch Barrett, knowing they never would, instead arresting minor workers in his empire.
- the deal allowed the police to focus on the gangsters in the area who were more of a concern to the public.
- Barrett's business was less blatant and operated in a more discreet way because of the deal.
- from the police's point of view, they got paid a lot.
Of course, the last point is the one that would raise ethical concerns.
But it's quite obvious that things ran more smoothly because of the deal and general crime was reduced.