The Fort Worth Police Departments has created a new department to encourage accountability on the force. Called the Constitutional Policing Unit (CPU), it’s a strategic initiative with a goal of improving accountability and transparency \u2014 to uphold the highest standards of policing \u2014 as well as encouraging continuous learning across regulations, procedures, training, and operations.<\/p>\n
According to a release, the new Constitutional Policing Unit supplements the department’s already-existing Office of the Police Oversight Monitor (OPOM) and establishes an internal mechanism within FWPD. The unit will ensure continuous improvements and sustained compliance.<\/p>\n
The CPU operates under the Chief of Police within the executive office and is composed of:<\/p>\n
CPU Director (Civilian)- Leads strategy, reviews, and reportingFWPD Liaison Lieutenant (Sworn)- Coordinates implementationCriminologist in Residence (Part-Time, Contract)- Provides analytic methods and quality assurance.<\/p>\n
The CPU will focus on:<\/p>\n
Structured reviews and targeted inspections of policy, training, operations, and internal controlsMonthly and quarterly data assessments to track emerging trendsDeveloping corrective-action plans and monitoring implementation<\/p>\n
The new unit is nearly identical to one launched<\/a> by the Dallas Police Department in 2023 by then-DPD chief Eddie Garcia, who is now Police Chief for Fort Worth.<\/p>\n