The nature of an officer’s duties regularly involves the use of discretion. Consistent and wise use of discretion, based on professional policing competence, will do much to preserve good relationships and retain the confidence of the public. Officers of this department shall be aware of and abide by the guidelines set forth in this policy and UTPD mission statement concerning discretion.

1. Definition:
   1. Discretion: The latitude afforded officers to determine when to invoke the criminal process.
2. Responsibilities:
   1. The UTPD mission statement lists four values: (Integrity, Justice, Service, and Trust)
      1. Trust is define as: The University community has entrusted UTPD to exercise its authority with discretion, good judgment, respect and a commitment to honesty, justice, and diversity. Each member of UTPD strives to build upon the trust and confidence of the students, staff, faculty, and general public.
   2. Officers will be responsible for exercising the discretion vested in his/her position through consideration of UTPD policy and procedures, Mission, Vision, and Goals, System Police Policy, Board of Regent's Rules, Criminal Statutes of the State of Texas, and United States Constitution.
   3. The principles of reasonableness should guide the officer’s actions and the officer should consider mitigating circumstances in determining whether legal or administrative action shall be taken.
   4. Every situation will involve a unique set of circumstances. Officers are expected to use his/her training, knowledge, and judgment to reach an appropriate and reasonable conclusion.
   5. In exercising discretion, an officer must be able to assess the situation or incident, analyze the facts or information, and then determine a reasonable and appropriate course of action. These factors include, but are not limited to:
      1. Department policy, procedures, mission statement, values, vision, goals, and objectives.
      2. Availability of a supervisor or other officers for guidance and/or consultation.
      3. Facts and circumstances which will subsequently justify the decision.
      4. Range of available alternatives.
      5. Seriousness of the incident.
      6. Officer safety concerns.
      7. Other factors such as staffing availability, impact on the University community, humane considerations, and potential for recurrence.