Senate Bill 1074, successfully passed during the 77th Texas Legislative Session, became effective on September 1, 2001. The bill was designed to address a major issue facing law enforcement in America – racial profiling. The bill mandates that law enforcement agencies in the State of Texas comply with the provisions as set forth in Articles 2.132, 2.133 and 2.134 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, by, first and foremost, adopting a written policy on racial profiling.

Two fundamental rights guaranteed by both the United States and Texas Constitution is 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 be free from unreasonable searches and seizures must be respected. Racial profiling is an unacceptable tactic and will not be condoned.

The Princeton Police Department’s policy on racial profiling clearly defines acts that constitute racial profiling, strictly prohibits officers from engaging in such acts and provides a process by which individuals may file complaints if they believe that they have been stopped or searched by a peace officer based solely on their race, ethnicity or national origin.

The Police Department’s mission is to provide a safe and secure environment throughout the entire community. Members of the department strive to serve and protect the community in a courteous, conscientious and professional manner.

The Police Department will accept complaints from any person who believes he or she has been stopped or searched based on racial, ethnic or national origin profiling. No person shall be discouraged, intimidated or coerced from filing a complaint, nor discriminated against because he or she filed a complaint. A Racial Profiling Complaint Form may be picked up at the Police Department. Complaints should be directed to the Police Chief.

LINK TO CHAPTER 52: Racial Profiling