This monograph presents the first study of Negro police officers in Texas, the need for them and factors surrounding their use. It was felt that the need for Negro police officers was more than symbolic, and recommended fair representation in the agency that regulates their everyday life. Minority officers can provide a special competence in dealing with minority groups, as well as in helping to reduce stereotyping and prejudice of both blacks and whites. A brief questionnaire was sent to each county sheriff and major city police department throughout the state, inquiring about their employment practices, number of white and black officers, and percentage of crime committed by Negroes in their jurisdictions. Survey results, tabulated and correlated, indicated a definite pattern to the likelihood of Negro police officers being employed according to the environment and size of a jurisdiction, its degree of urbanization. As expected, rural jurisdictions had made the least progress in integration. Some county sheriffs showed hostility toward the study. It was recommended that the proportion of Negroes employed in Texas law enforcement be increased, particularly in the rural areas where the need is greatest, through active recruitment efforts. Suggestions for modification of recruitment techniques and for reassessment of duty assignments are given. (MF)