Most would assume there are procedures in place to ensure that those employed to protect and enforce the law abide by it themselves. Not so in many precincts of Dallas County, according to an investigation by Dallas Morning News.
Many Dallas County constables have employed deputies with histories of misconduct and criminal convictions, according to the investigation.
How is this possible? Some constables don’t make an effort to conduct any background investigations on their deputies, while others simply meet minimal investigation requirements. But according to Tim Braaten, Executive Director of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, the basic employment information required by his agency should not be considered a sufficient background investigation.
Mr. Braaten stated, “Shame on you’ if you don’t do a background investigation…there is never a minute wasted during a background investigation. You always find something.”
Due to both failure to comply with state law and the inadequate coverage provided by mandated procedures, there are “probably…over 100 felons working as peace officers in the state of Texas,” according to Braaten.
Law enforcemement agencies aren’t the only state agencies that suffer when employers stop at the minimal requirement. As discussed in this issue’s article, “Background Investigation Laws Fail to Protect Students,” school districts across the nation have felt the repercussions of state investigation procedures that leave holes in criminal record history and other relevant information.
Complying with state or federal law does not ensure due diligence–employers must effectively evaluate all aspects of a candidate’s history relevant to the position being filled.
As stated by David Byrnes, a Kaufman County, TX sheriff, state laws do not prevent him from hiring a “problem officer.” But if he does, he says, “I’ve bought the liability.”
For tips on how to choose the investigation services needed to protect your organization, see the article “Which Investigation Services Do I Need?” below.
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