Dallas police face questions over investigation involving public information officer

The department’s assistant director of media relations is under investigation after sources say she allegedly used a police vehicle equipped with emergency lights and sirens.

The president of the Dallas Police Association is questioning why a civilian employee under investigation by the Dallas Police Department remains in her public-facing role.

Allison Hudson, the department’s assistant director of media relations, is under investigation after sources say she allegedly used a police vehicle equipped with emergency lights and sirens.

The department has confirmed an open investigation but says it cannot share additional details.

Hudson was named to her position in January.

On Wednesday, Hudson appeared at Dallas City Hall during a council meeting and took photos with members of DPD’s Police Explorers program, which just earned first place in a major state competition. Hudson’s appearance drew criticism from members of the Dallas Police Association.

“I don't need this individual being the face of the department while under investigation,” DPA President Sean Pease said.

Pease said he spoke with Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux by phone on Thursday. According to Pease, the chief told him the vehicle Hudson used was the only one available.

Pease said that explanation does not change department policy or Texas law, which restricts who can use a vehicle with emergency equipment. He also questioned whether Hudson is being treated differently from sworn officers facing similar allegations.

“The concern that I have is it's being treated different than rank and file officers are treated,” Pease said.

Pease said some union members facing misdemeanor-level criminal allegations have been placed on administrative leave immediately. He believes Hudson should be subject to the same standards.

In response, the department said, “It is not Department practice to place an employee on administrative leave solely because a complaint was made.”

DPD also said investigations conducted by its Public Integrity Unit must remain confidential. Comeaux said he has not requested any changes to the investigation.

Pease acknowledged that Hudson deserves due process but said his concern is about equal treatment.

The dispute comes as the police association’s contract expired at the end of September, leaving negotiations ongoing. Pease also pointed to a $30,000 funding need for the department’s Police Explorers program following a funding cut.

He said he would rather see attention focused on those issues than on the investigation involving Hudson.

“I wish that this wasn't even an issue that we were even addressing,” Pease said.

DPD says it cannot provide further details about the case. Comeaux said he expects the department to conduct thorough investigations fairly and with integrity.