Dallas police investigating potential irregularities on promotion exams

Dallas police are conducting an internal investigation of a recent promotional test for hundreds of police officers.

It is not yet clear the scope or focus of the investigation. FOX 4 has been told more than 300 officers took the supervisory test on September 15 for promotion to the rank of sergeant.

Deputy Chief Scott Walton confirmed concerns were raised about a part of the exam process called the "assessment center." But he did not elaborate on who or how the concerns came to light.

It comes at a critical time when the department is losing hundreds of officers to other departments and through attrition.

In a press release issued late Thursday afternoon, the department says:

"At this time, there is no evidence any officer testing for promotion cheated. it is unknown if the final results of the promotional exam will be affected by the focus of the investigation."

FOX 4 has not yet been able to determine how the alleged irregularities came to light, but a number of officers who have taken the test in the past say it is a very difficult exam. If, for example, an unusually large number of people passed it, that could have been a red flag.

Depending on the findings of the investigation, it’ll be determined if those taking the test will be required to take it again.