The New York Police Department will no longer display the motto “Courtesy, Professionalism, Respect” on its patrol cars. Instead, the department is transitioning to a new slogan that reads: “Fighting Crime, Protecting The Public.” The decision to update the messaging on patrol vehicles was made as the department modernizes its fleet, with the new crime-focused decal set to adorn the rear windows of approximately 10,000 patrol cars. The shift away from the “CPR” slogan, which was introduced in 1996 under Mayor Rudy Giuliani, was recently reported by Gothamist.

The original slogan, “Courtesy, Professionalism, Respect,” was part of an initiative aimed at improving community relations and enhancing the department’s image. However, the motto faced criticism and ridicule over the years, with police critics repurposing it in negative contexts. The decision to introduce a new slogan represents a departure from the long-standing messaging that adorned NYPD patrol cars for decades.

Last year, the department announced plans to update its classic blue-and-white cruisers, introducing new exteriors that feature the NYPD flag in green and white, as well as a QR code for public feedback. Some of the new patrol vehicles also display a decal stating “Protecting NYC since 1845,” which was unveiled by the previous NYPD commissioner. It is unclear if these older decals will be replaced by the newly introduced messaging.

Despite the association with “Courtesy, Professionalism, Respect” on patrol cars, the NYPD maintains a distinct official motto in Latin: “Fidelis Ad Mortem,” translating to “Faithful Unto Death.” The shift to a new slogan reflects the department’s ongoing efforts to evolve and adapt its public image and messaging.