An Internal Framework for Self-Assessment and Self-Correction Created by the Dallas Police Department

One year ago, the Dallas Police Department (DPD) launched a new unit to identify areas for long-term improvements, present opportunities for augmenting operational efficiency, and enhance public safety through innovation. The effort is positioned to create change from within by relying on system assessments rather than waiting for external pressure after a critical incident or court order to improve processes. As such, the unit views itself as a “best practice unit” that proactively identifies areas for improvement and implements best practices in accordance with the needs of the department, desires of the community, and innovations in the field.

How DPD Conducts Self-Assessment

The five core functions of the unit include independent analysis, implementation, monitoring, training and education, and officer and community engagement. The unit’s approach to independent analysis entails gathering information from officers, analyzing quantitative data, conducting field observations, reviewing processes and protocols, assessing policies, and undertaking reviews of the literature and best practices. The unit also partners with a criminologist who has previously worked with two major police departments to monitor and track their progress toward implementing constitutional policing practices and building community relations. The Criminologist in Residence assists in outlining the methodology for each review and conducts analyses of the Department’s data. This approach brings expertise to the department, balancing decision-making with an informed, external point of view.

After review and approval by DPD leadership, implementation can include changes to general orders and standard operating procedures, enhancements to internal systems or databases, and new or revised training. The unit guides the implementation of its recommendations, with a focus on the effectiveness of the implemented strategies.

Achievements of the Approach

During the first year, the new unit, called the Constitutional Policing Unit, completed three reviews, with more planned for the upcoming year. One example of a review involves the Internal Affairs Division’s (IAD’s) investigation processing times. Shorter IAD investigations can help foster transparency, improve perceptions about how the incident was handled, and benefit officers by providing a timelier resolution. The unit’s review resulted in four primary findings and 17 recommendations to add efficiencies and streamline processes, all of which were reviewed and approved by DPD leadership and are in the process of being implemented. Other reviews include assessments of the Department’s motor vehicle stop data program, use of force system and data, and Special Response Group responsible for responding to First Amendment demonstrations and instances of civil unrest. The 12-person team of professional and sworn staff is building a framework and processes to promote a culture of continuous learning and improvement by engaging in self-assessment and self-correction.

Hopes for the Unit

The DPD hopes to foster operational innovation, enhance efficiency, and encourage evidence-informed decision-making as it reshapes law enforcement practices to protect civil rights, bolster trust between communities and officers, and promote public safety. The progress and learning from early experiences of this unit are worth keeping an eye on.

Author

Andrea M. Headley, Ph.D., Affiliated Scholar, National Policing Institute.

Published May 21, 2025