The Dallas Police Department’s Public Integrity Unit is responsible for investigating offenses alleged to have been committed by City employees and elected officials. These investigations are expected to be kept highly confidential to avoid unintended impact on City operations. Recently, an open investigation into a member of the DPD command staff was made public by individuals aware of the investigation. This is a violation of DPD General Order 323.05, Information from Police Files. To reinforce the importance of confidentiality and discretion, each member of the Public Integrity Unit signs an affidavit of non-disclosure upon their placement in the unit.
Following this disclosure, a local media outlet reported that the investigation has been handled differently, implying preferential treatment by allowing the employee to continue executing their regular duties.
“I am highly disappointed that members of our department chose to share unverified allegations about another employee, potentially hindering a criminal investigation, and causing a distraction from our focus: protecting the City of Dallas. I have not and will not ask for, imply, or order, any change to an investigation involving a DPD employee,” said Chief of Police Daniel Comeaux.
General Order 513, Administrative Leave / Restricted Duty Policy, defines the criteria for placing an employee on administrative leave. It is not Department practice to place an employee on administrative leave solely because a complaint was made. Specifically for PIU, the investigation is mandated to be kept confidential, and in some instances an employee may be kept unaware of the investigation.
“I expect our Department to conduct thorough investigations fairly and with integrity,” Chief Comeaux added.