Dallas Police Union Leader Placed on Leave Amid Internal Affairs Probe

On Friday, the leader of the city's largest police union was placed on administrative leave after the Dallas Police Department initiated an internal affairs investigation into his behavior, officials confirmed on Monday.

Sr. Cpl. Jaime Castro, a veteran officer and president of the Dallas Police Association, is on leave while an investigation unfolds. Authorities chose not to disclose specifics, stating that the department would refrain from additional comments to “preserve the integrity of the process.”

In a formal statement, Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux highlighted the department’s standards for its officers. “The Dallas Police Department anticipates that each member of the organization will maintain the utmost standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability,” Comeaux stated. “All claims of wrongdoing are addressed with utmost seriousness and are subject to comprehensive and impartial investigation.”

Castro, a key figure in the ongoing discussions at City Hall regarding police staffing, response times, and officer retention, was unavailable for comment on Monday morning. As president of the Dallas Police Association, he has become a key figure in significant discussions surrounding public safety, encompassing budget negotiations and the dynamics of community-police relations.

The DPA, established in 1959, advocates for over 4,000 officers and is recognized as a leading law enforcement organization in North Texas. The union frequently represents its members in The department addresses disciplinary issues but rarely discusses ongoing internal investigations involving its leaders in public forums.

The duration of the inquiry remains uncertain, as does its potential link to Castro's responsibilities within the union or his role in the department. Investigations conducted by internal affairs can encompass a range of issues, from breaches of administrative policies to more serious allegations. Department officials stated that they will share information only when they deem it suitable, in accordance with city and state personnel regulations.

Castro has held multiple roles throughout his time with the department and has consistently attended community gatherings, police updates, and City Council sessions. His departure occurs amid persistent staffing shortages at DPD and ongoing demands from city officials. City officials have been demanding enhancements in officer morale, neighborhood patrols, and responses to violent crime.