Racial Profiling Policy

During the 77th Texas Legislative Session, Senate Bill 1074 was successfully passed. This bill was designed to address a growing concern regarding the practice of racial profiling in the law enforcement profession. Specifically, this 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 Jan. 1, 2002. As such, the University Police Department has instituted a policy that addresses racial profiling and provides a compliant 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 ASUPD to police in a proactive and responsible manner and to enforce state and federal laws without regard to race, ethnicity or national origin. All university police officers are expected to conduct themselves in a dignified and respectful manner when dealing with the public.

ASUPD 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 police lieutenant at 325-942-2071. All complaints will be investigated in a thorough and timely manner.