Denton Police Department
Serving Denton's growing community since 1920
About the Department
The Denton Police Department has served the university city of Denton since 1920, currently protecting approximately 158,000 residents with 215 authorized sworn positions. An intelligence-led, data-driven, proactive policing organization centered on Relational Policing, DPD operates from a downtown headquarters at 601 E. Hickory St. and a 24,000 sq ft south substation at 4111 Vintage Blvd (opened 2023). The department's Criminal Investigations Bureau, K9 unit, and specialized detective divisions provide comprehensive public safety services, supported by a state-of-the-art Public Safety Training Center shared with Denton Fire and Denton County Sheriff's Office. DPD is accredited through the Texas Police Chiefs Association (TPCA) Law Enforcement Accreditation Program, meeting or exceeding 170+ best practices. Acting Chief Tony Salas leads the department as of January 2026.
Specialties & Capabilities
10 specialized units across 3 divisions
Operations
Full-service fire and EMS, all personnel are paramedics beyond probationary year
Prevention & Investigation
Fire prevention, investigation, and public safety partnerships
Support & Community
Community engagement, education, and member wellness
Compensation
12-hour shift structure; 1.5x pay for hours beyond scheduled shift per FLSA
Promotional & Incentive Pay
Benefits Package
Health Insurance
Two PPO medical plan options plus dental, vision, and life insurance (1x annual salary; 2x for accidental death)
TMRS Pension
Texas Municipal Retirement System: 7% employee contribution (tax-deferred) with 2:1 city match at retirement. Eligible at 20 years any age or 5 years at age 60.
Tuition Reimbursement
100% reimbursement for job-related coursework at accredited institutions; must continue employment 2 years post-completion
Paid Time Off
15 vacation days/year, 15 sick days/year, 13 paid holidays. Take-home vehicles (seniority-based), uniforms, and body armor provided.
Eligibility Requirements
Education & Training
Police Academy (BPOC)
Over 800 hours of Basic Peace Officer Course curriculum at the Denton Public Safety Training Center. Approximately 5 months to complete. Two academies per year (January and July). Department-funded.
Field Training (FTO)
Approximately 6-month program with constant supervision by experienced officers and daily performance evaluation. Shorter for advanced recruits.
Continuing Education
TCOLE mandates minimum 40 hours every 2-year cycle for all commissioned peace officers. Additional in-service training at shared Public Safety Training Center.
Community
Life in Denton, Texas
Why Denton
Accreditations & Recognition
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