The Dallas Police Association challenged the handling of a criminal investigation involving a top department spokeswoman on October 22, questioning why she continued working, while Police Chief Daniel Comeaux defended the department’s approach.
Allison Hudson, assistant director of media relations, faces an inquiry by the department’s Public Integrity Unit. The Dallas Express previously reported on the investigation October 17. The new dispute centers on whether department leaders apply administrative leave standards consistently.
Union questions equal treatment
Hudson faces an allegation of impersonating a public servant, a felony offense, according to a statement from association President Sean Pease, Fox 4 reported. DPD’s October 22 statement did not identify the alleged offense or announce criminal charges.
Pease questioned Hudson’s reported operation of a department vehicle equipped with emergency equipment. Comeaux told him it was the only vehicle available, Pease said in the statement.
“The availability of a vehicle does not supersede department policy or the law,” Pease said.
Pease said he had represented officers whom the department immediately placed on administrative leave over less serious allegations, including misdemeanors. He questioned whether Hudson’s executive position affected the department’s treatment of her.
Hudson deserves due process and the presumption of innocence, Pease said, while calling for transparency and consistent enforcement of department policies.
Chief defends investigation
A complaint alone does not trigger administrative leave under department practice, DPD said in its October 22 statement. Public Integrity Unit investigations require confidentiality, and investigators sometimes do not notify the employee about the inquiry, the department said.
“I have not and will not ask for, imply, or order, any change to an investigation involving a DPD employee,” Comeaux said in the department’s statement.
Comeaux criticized employees for sharing unverified allegations, saying the disclosure could hinder the criminal investigation. DPD characterized the disclosure as a violation of General Order 323.05, which governs information from police files.
General Order 513 lists circumstances requiring administrative leave or restricted duty, including a criminal filing for a Class B misdemeanor or above, a warrant, an indictment or a custodial arrest. The published policy also allows action when an employee’s presence may disrupt the workplace or the chief decides it is necessary.
Provided by Dallas Express
