The Arlington Police Department has placed 15 officers on administrative leave with pay pending the outcome of an investigation related to the accuracy of reporting traffic stops. The department uncovered suspicious reporting of traffic stop activity during routine supervisory audits of personnel.
The department conducts random audits of officer activity in the field such as reviewing digital video recordings and self-initiated activity related to traffic stops and citizen contacts. During this periodic review, supervisors identified several officers who allegedly conducted traffic stops that did not actually occur which prompted this investigation.
All facts at this point in the investigation suggest that no citizens were contacted during these alleged traffic stops and no tickets were issued. This administrative investigation will focus on concerns that officers untruthfully reported traffic stops that were never conducted, including the inaccurate reporting of traffic stop dispositions. Officers are required to accurately report driver demographics, the reason for the traffic stop, notation of whether an arrest occurred, and whether or not a search was conducted during the stop.
These disposition codes are utilized in completing the department’s annual racial profiling report. At this point in our investigation, it would appear that the number of traffic stops in question would not compromise the department’s annual report; however investigators are still assessing the full impact of the actions of the officers on the department.
“These allegations are serious and represent conduct that is not consistent with departmental expectations. I expect Arlington officers to perform their duties with the highest degree of personal integrity. We will investigate these allegations to determine the facts of this case,” said Police Chief Will Johnson.
The department did a thorough review of traffic stops that occurred within the last 90 days which resulted in the identification of these 15 officers. Investigators are expanding audit parameters to determine if any additional personnel complaints are warranted. The department has notified the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office of this investigation and will share the outcome of the facts once completed to determine if criminal prosecution is warranted.
The Arlington Police Department is comprised of approximately 625 sworn officers supported by 182 professional staff members.
