Policing & Criminal Justice Recommendations | 2023 Update
6.3. B Schedule regular psychological evaluations for all officers such as an evaluation administered every 3-5 years and a mandatory evaluation after a traumatic event. Consider hiring a full time APD Chaplain as a part of this process.
6.4. A Institute a review process that includes City Manager’ s Office and APD leadership, qualified professionals and community members to review and evaluate high profile national incidents of police violence and misconduct to incorporate time sensitive changes in policy, training or other processes.
City Facilitator: Arlington Police Department and Human Resources Timeframe: Medium term( 1-2 years)- In Progress Actions:
• A full-time Police Chaplain who is also trained in mental health work has been hired.
• The Chaplain spends a full shift with every patrol officer in a ride out and conducts meaningful visits with other APD sworn employees. Following feedback from the Chaplain at the end of his rotation through the force, the addition of more formal mental health checks will be considered.
City Facilitator: City Manager’ s Office and Arlington Police Department Timeframe: Short term( 6-12 months)- Complete(& Ongoing) Actions: Beginning with Class 61, officers participated in talks with community groups. NAACP, LULAC, Bridging the Gap and LGBT Health Arlington participated. In January 2023, the academy hosted a community forum and invited:
• NAACP
• Bridging the Gap
• LULAC
• Disability Studies at UTA
• LGBT Health Arlington
• DFW Islamic Educational Center
• Support Shalom
• Tarrant County Asian American Chamber of Commerce
• Junior League The discussion focused on ways APD can better involve community, from the perspective of each group.
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