The investigation is the result of an accusation against the department by officers who claim they are forced to meet citation and arrest quotas. A city spokesperson declined the opportunity to comment on the matter.
Officer Kayla Walker first spoke about the alleged quota during the public comment section of the April 19 council meeting. She said the department had been “illegally using quotas to evaluate and discipline officers” for the entirety of her 13-year tenure.
“Patrol officers are threatened with punishment for not writing enough tickets, arresting enough people and/or making enough citizen contacts,” she said during the meeting, noting that state law prohibits the use of ticket quotas.
Walker asked council to launch an investigation into the issue.
“We understand the need for citations and arrests in our job,” she said. “We are not contesting that; we are simply protesting the illegal quota practice that strips officers of one of the most important things we have in our job—discretion.”
At the next council meeting, City Manager Dan Johnson announced that a thorough review had been initiated and would involve outside legal counsel.
“I want to assure you—the City Council, the public, Officer Walker and the Richardson Police Department—the concerns raised regarding traffic enforcement practices and alleged violations of the state transportation code are serious matters,” he said. “At the conclusion [of the assessment], I will make a public understanding of that outcome.”
Following a presentation of the report’s findings, council will have the opportunity to provide feedback. The public can also comment on the allegation during the visitors section. The meeting begins at 6 p.m. and will be available to stream on the city’s website.
