West Orange Police Renew ‘Oath Of Office’ For 2021

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Every West Orange officer takes an oath of office upon being sworn in. And for 2021, the department is making a renewed push to keep that vow in mind, authorities said.

According to the West Orange Police Department, there’s a “solemn pledge” that officers make when they commit to a career in public service.

“Here at the WOPD, we have decided to renew our oath of office every single year as a reminder of the honor that being a sworn law enforcement officer brings,” authorities wrote. “It punctuates the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect and ensuring all human life.”

The WOPD continued:

“Each officer takes the oath of office upon being ‘sworn in’ as a police officer. Each supervisor also takes another oath upon promotion to a new rank within the department. We swear upon God to faithfully support the U.S. Constitution, NJ State Constitution and all applicable laws. It is always a memorable and proud occasion surrounded by our families, friends, co-workers and members of the community. Every year from now forward, our officers will review their oath and ethical commitment to the citizens of West Orange as a reminder of our role to protect and serve our community partners in our amazing township.”

The oath reads:

"As public servants all members, both sworn and civilian, will adhere to, and abide by an oath of office that includes:"

• "Supporting the Constitution of the United States and the state of New Jersey"
• "Bearing true faith and allegiance to same and to the governments established in the U.S. and in this state, under the authority of the people"
• "Faithfully, impartially and justly perform all of the duties of their respective office according to the best of ability"

It's an important reminder of the duties of being a cop, especially after a trying year like 2020, police said.

According to the WOPD:

“2020 brought challenges to our community and to our department like we have never seen before. Although it would be very easy to focus on all of the negatives and hardships of 2020 as the defining features of the year, the truth is that this year showed just how strong this community and this department can be. We did our best to be there for our community partners throughout the ups and downs. We tried to be a welcoming smile (under our masks) to those children who needed it the most. From assisting the local food pantry as much as possible, to birthday drive-bys for the young and old, to being present at as many community events that we could safely attend...we never wanted to lose that relationship and that sense of partnership that we feel with the citizens of West Orange. We truly hope that 2021 is safer, healthier and happier for everyone out there. We hope to be able to talk, joke, laugh and share memories with all of our friends sooner rather than later. Like all of you, we can’t wait to put so much in the rear view mirror and get back to doing what we do best: serving and protecting West Orange and engaging with our community partners in every way possible.”

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