Isn't this an underlying symptom of lack of accountability of our greater leadership? They do these things, they act like criminals and thieves, and so the people who follow them get shown examples that it's OK while being told to do otherwise.

"Show bad examples then hit you on the wrist for following my behavior" is like bad parenting.

I don't think they want you to follow their behavior. They do want accountability, but for everyone below them, not for themselves.