The God Clause Removed: Alabama Officers Push Back Against Change to Law Enforcement Code of Ethics
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
A growing number of Alabama law enforcement officers are voicing concern over a quiet but significant change: the removal of any reference to God from the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics. While some leaders say it’s an effort to modernize and keep things inclusive, others warn it could erode the very foundation of moral accountability in the profession.
This isn’t just a local story. It speaks to broader questions about ethics, identity, and the values guiding police work across the country.
What Changed?
For decades, the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics referenced God as part of the oath taken by officers—a reminder of a higher moral authority beyond the law and badge. The original language included phrases like:
"I will constantly strive to achieve these objectives and ideals, dedicating myself before God to my chosen profession..."
Now, some departments in Alabama have adopted a revised version that removes this entirely. The updated oath centers around upholding constitutional rights and public trust, with no reference to a higher power.
Why Officers Are Speaking Out
Several Alabama officers have gone public, saying the change feels like stripping away part of what gives the oath its weight. Some fear it's another step in disconnecting the profession from the principles that have historically guided it—duty, integrity, and a sense of accountability to something greater than oneself.
One officer told 1819 News:
“We are setting ourselves up for destruction. If we take God out of it, there’s no moral compass left.”
Their argument isn’t about enforcing religion. It’s about recognizing that policing is about more than laws—it’s about right and wrong, and officers often rely on personal values and moral clarity when navigating gray areas on the job.
The Other Side: Inclusion and Legal Simplicity
Not everyone opposes the revision. Some departments argue that removing religious references makes the code more inclusive and legally cleaner, especially in diverse communities or multi-faith departments.
The updated version still emphasizes:
Integrity
Courage
Community service
Commitment to constitutional rights
Supporters of the change say the spirit of the oath remains intact, just worded in a way that applies equally to officers of any or no faith.
Whether or not your agency adopts this change, the conversation brings up a deeper issue: What anchors your oath?
In a time when public trust is fragile and officer morale is constantly tested, how we define duty, honor, and ethics matters more than ever. If the oath loses its depth—especially in the eyes of those taking it—it may start to lose its meaning.
Departments, unions, and leadership need to take these discussions seriously. If officers feel the profession is becoming detached from the values they believe in, it could impact recruitment, retention, and how committed officers feel to the job.
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