(A) (1) It is hereby declared that law enforcement is an honorable calling. Service in this field demands a professional and vocational, rather than an occupational, philosophy. Personal honor, a desire for professional status and devotion to service above self, are the motives which impel a police officer to discharge his or her responsibilities in full measure.
(2) The officer gives his or her loyal and faithful attention to the apprehension and identification of criminals, being equally alert to protect the innocent and prosecute the guilty. The officer performs the functions of his or her office without fear, favor or prejudice and does not engage in unlawful or improper practices.
(3) The officer does not disclose to unauthorized persons any information concerning pending matters which might be prejudicial to the interests of the Commonwealth, the county, the city or the defendant.
(4) Rigid adherence to the principles set out above is mandatory for anyone accepting a position in the Police Department. The significance of this lies in the fact that the community places a trust in police officers and expects them to conduct themselves as to merit this trust. Members should be proud to hold a position which demands so much.
(B) Each officer will tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Any attempts to resort to half truths or evasion of an issue will result in irreparable damage to his or her reputation and destroy public and official confidence in the entire agency.
(C) The officer will avoid the use of obscene, profane or violent language.
(D) The officer will face his or her problems with determination and be resolute and persistent in the face of difficulty. The officer will exert every effort to complete his or her assigned tasks.
(E) The officer will, through constant study and application of progressive police techniques, strengthen his or her own capabilities and encourage public support.
(F) The officer will be loyal to the law enforcement service and to his or her associates of all ranks.
(G) The officer will encourage his or her associates to fully discharge the obligation of their offices.
(H) The officer will strive for full coordination of effort in internal activities and in official relationships with other organizations.
(I) The officer will take his or her oath of office without reservations or evasion. There can be no compromise with sincerity.
(Prior Code, § 37.15) (Res. passed 5-27-1986)