Frequently Asked Questions

Can UT Southwestern police officers enforce the law off the university campus?

Yes. All UT Southwestern Medical Center commissioned police officers are licensed and certified by TCLEOSE and are recognized peace officers under Article 2.12 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Even though UT Southwestern police officers primarily patrol and operate on any property owned, leased or otherwise under the control of UT Southwestern, they are authorized to make arrests pursuant to the Texas Code of Criminal Procedures for crimes as defined by any applicable Texas law.

Can I make a report over the telephone?

It depends upon the type of crime, incident, or information you wish to report to the department. Some situations are best handled by having an officer dispatched to your location to contact you for more information concerning the situation at hand. In some cases, the report can be taken over the telephone by an officer.

Why does it sometimes take awhile for an officer to respond and take my report?

All calls received by the department are prioritized by urgency. Emergency calls are given higher priority than non-emergency calls. All calls are important and services will be rendered as soon as reasonably possible.

If I had something stolen from campus, do I need to contact other police departments and report it as stolen to them as well? 

No. In most cases, if the property in question is stolen from campus or property otherwise under the control of UT Southwestern, the UT Southwestern police department has jurisdiction in these cases. Therefore, it would not be necessary to report it to another outside police agency.

How can I get a copy of a report? 

Written requests are to be mailed to:
Leah Hurley
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Office of Legal Affairs
5323 Harry Hines Blvd. Dallas, TX 75390-9008
Fax: 214-648-8805

How can I get fingerprinted?

Fingerprinting services are currently free of charge and available between 1 and 4:30 p.m. on weekdays to UT Southwestern faculty, staff, students, and their families.

How do I find out how much a campus parking or traffic ticket costs? 

All campus citations are handled through the University. They do not affect your state driver’s license record. Contact the Parking Services Office at 214-648-9600 for fine information.

How can I appeal a warning or campus citation? 

Obtain a Traffic Appeal Request Form from Parking Services or the police department. Completed forms can be faxed to the traffic appeals committee at 214-648-9601. Note: This form cannot be used for court appearance tickets.

How do I find out how much a court appearance parking or traffic ticket costs? 

All court appearance citations are issued by police officers and are handled through the appropriate Dallas County Justice of the Peace Court. See the reverse side of your citation copy for the appropriate court address and telephone number. The court information where the charge will be filed is indicated on the front side of the citation. It is suggested that you contact the appropriate court to determine the fine amount. Court appearance traffic citations can affect your state driver’s license record.

How can I compliment or complain about police/security service? 

Contact the police department at 214-648-8311 and speak to the on-duty supervisor.

Can I get a permit to carry a pistol? 

Handgun permits are issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Call 214-861-2125 for more information.
NOTE: It is unlawful to carry a firearm on campus (PC Section 46.03. Places Weapons Prohibited) even if you are licensed to carry a concealed handgun under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code.

How do I get a copy of my criminal record? 

Criminal records are maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Call 214-861-2125 for more information.

I am aware of suspicious activity that could be criminal in nature or have information that I think the police should know about but I don't want to get personally involved. What can I do?  

There is an Anonymous Reporting Form available at our website that provides someone the optional ability to anonymous make a report to the police department.