DPD Launches Intervention Program To Detect 'Bad' Officers
DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - The Dallas Police Department has launched a new program to detect bad officers before they go too far. But some officers think the 'intervention' program goes too far.
Despite reductions in crime, there are a lot of negative associated with the DPD. North Texans have heard about everything from questionable behavior by off-duty officers, to on-duty mishaps.
But problem officers usually have a history of discipline before their actions become public and shine a negative light on department.
To help those with a less than sterling background, DPD Chief David Brown has launched a Personal Development Program to get certain officers back on the right track.
The program involves putting problem officers on an early intervention plan so they can modify their behavior and ultimately have more productive careers.Frater
To help detect 'problem' officers, a special team of Public Integrity officers will be assigned to detect 'bad apples' and will do so by going undercover if necessary.
One of the more controversial components of the program involves surveillance of officers, and even groups of officers, suspected of bad conduct. It's a concept that bothers Sr. Cpl. Mike Walton with the Fraternal Order of Police. "There is no need for this," he said/ "This is unchecked power."
Some police groups say having officers spy on other officers is a bad idea. "We could run into a situation, an officer-on-officer shooting, where the one officer didn't know the other officer," Walton gave as an example. "This is not a well thought out plan."
The Dallas Police Department did not respond to CBS 11 News requests for an interview. But in a news release, Chief Brown said the early intervention program will help preserve the department's honesty and integrity.
Six additional officers will be assigned to the DPD Public Integrity Unit to help target criminal and administrative behavior.
