ROWLETT, Texas - The Rowlett Police Department has released details of an internal investigation involving three off-duty officers, saying the agency is addressing misinformation surrounding the 2025 incident while reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability.
In a statement issued by Police Chief Mike Denning, the department said the incident occurred while several off-duty officers were at a local bar.
According to the department, the officers were approached by an individual who did not know they were law enforcement. During the encounter, the individual allegedly displayed what appeared to be an illegal substance and stated that he was known to sell drugs at the establishment.
The department said one of the officers recognized the interaction as a potential opportunity to gather intelligence on local narcotics activity and briefly engaged the individual, arranging a follow-up meeting for a narcotics transaction at another location. Police said no transaction ever occurred.
After realizing the situation had the potential to become an unauthorized investigation, the officers immediately notified an on-duty supervisor. The supervisor instructed them to disengage from the situation and return home, and the officers complied, according to the department.
The Rowlett Police Department launched a formal internal affairs investigation after a complaint alleging possible policy and procedural violations was filed.
As part of the investigation, all three officers received formal notices of investigation and underwent drug testing because illegal substances had reportedly been involved in the encounter. The department said each officer tested negative for drugs.
Investigators ultimately determined that all three officers violated department policy.
Following reviews by the assistant chief of police and Chief Denning, each officer received disciplinary action. The department did not disclose the specific disciplinary measures imposed.
In the statement, Chief Denning said every internal affairs investigation is evaluated individually through a structured process designed to ensure fairness, due process and accountability.
The department said it released the information to address misinformation surrounding the incident and emphasized that it does not tolerate misconduct within its ranks.
"Our duty is to be transparent as we serve and protect the residents of Rowlett each and every day," the department said in its statement.
