The latest victim of Google’s recent spate of service-killing is Google Code. While the service itself is still running, its usefulness is being dramatically reduced: downloads are being phased out.

The reason? Abuse, according to Google. Apparently nefarious types are using the service to distribute [insert something bad here]. Instead of allowing the (technically-savvy) user community to get involved and suggest solutions, Google unilaterally shut it down.

Sure, I get that this is a free service, and as such, Google has no legal obligation to leave it intact. But stranding users like this is no way to make people love you. I’m already re-thinking my current use of Google services, and I’ve altogether stopped using new Google services. What’s the point of switching to a new service – no matter how good it is – if it’s going to disappear in a few months?

Google is a rarity among modern tech corporations: it’s run by engineers instead of accountants, lawyers and MBAs. That has worked well for Google in the past, but I can’t help wondering if those bottom-line numbers are starting to sway Google’s head honchos. The power of those numbers is seductive. Once we lose Larry and Sergey to the dark side, Google’s days as one of the good guys are numbered.