There is an interesting distinction between corruption at low and high levels of power.
For example, a local cop might take a small cash "fine" to overlook a specific crime. Or, a polititian could require a large "campaign contribution" to award a juicy contract to a certain company (AWB, Halliburton, etc.).
Somehow, white collar corruption seems more respectable. It's probably much more profitable.

The problem with low level police corruption is, the common man has no one to turn to for justice. A bad cop, or two, can be reported, but when the organization is corrupt, there is nobody to help you except Zorro or the Mafia.

If someone robs you, there is no money left to get police action. And if the police do listen to your complaint, the thief has your money to bribe them with.

Living with this, on a daily basis, is more oppressive than reports of high level corruption, and probably the prime reason Mexico is mired in poverty.:(

Mexican taxes plus the mordida paid to petty officialdom equals excessive taxation, yes. Definitely the clear and present neighborhood example of how not to.