Statement on Racial Profiling
Senate Bill 1074 was passed during the 77th Texas Legislative session. This bill was designed to address a growing concern regarding the practice of racial profiling in the law enforcement profession.
The bill mandates that police agencies in the State of Texas shall implement a policy that complies with Section 1, Articles 2.131, 2.133, and 2.134 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure by no later than January 1, 2002.
As such, UT Southwestern Police Department (UTSW PD) has instituted a policy that addresses racial profiling and provides a complaint process for those who believe they have been stopped or searched based on racial, ethnic, or national origin profiling.
Two of the fundamental rights guaranteed by the United States and Texas constitutions are equal protection under the law and freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures by government agents. The right of all persons to be treated equally and to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures must be respected. Racial profiling is an unacceptable patrol tactic and will not be condoned.
It is the practice of the UT Southwestern Police Department to police in a proactive and responsible manner and to enforce state and federal laws without regard to race, ethnicity, or national origin. All UT Southwestern Medical Center police officers are expected to conduct themselves in a dignified and respectful manner when dealing with the public.
UTSW PD will accept complaints from any person who believes he or she has been stopped or searched based on racial, ethnic, or national origin profiling. Complaints should be directed to the University Police Department shift commander at 214-648-8311 or Cpt. Billy Talkington at 214-633-1632. All complaints will be investigated in a thorough and timely manner.