REPORT: Tyler Police Score 42% on Accountability, Use of Force Disparities Exposed

TYLER, Texas (TXAN 24) — The Tyler Police Department scored a troubling 42% on the Police Scorecard — a national platform analyzing use of force, racial disparities, and accountability in law enforcement. For a department serving over 100,000 residents, that score is far from acceptable.

“From 2013 to 2020, 41 civilians filed official complaints of police misconduct. How many were ruled in favor of the people? Only 12%. That means 88% were swept under the rug, ignored, or dismissed outright.“ - Dr. Candice Matthews

Between 2013 and 2023, 417 use-of-force incidents were reported — nearly 117 per 10,000 arrests. Even more alarming: Black residents make up just 24% of Tyler’s population but account for 47% of arrests. That’s nearly double their share of the population.

Accountability? Practically nonexistent. Only 12% of civilian complaints were ruled in favor of the public. And of the two complaints of racial discrimination, none were upheld.

“And don’t be fooled—Tyler has NO civilian oversight board. So while communities across the country have adopted independent review structures, Tyler continues to allow police to police themselves.” - Dr. Candice Matthews

While Tyler PD reported only one police shooting in the past decade, the department has focused heavily on low-level offenses — 59% of all arrests — while serious crimes like homicides remain unsolved at a rate worse than 43% of departments nationwide.

With a $28 million annual budget, Tyler taxpayers deserve better. These numbers show a pattern — not just isolated mistakes. Reform isn’t optional. It’s overdue.

We’re watching. And we’ll keep reporting.