The Dallas Police Department claimed the top spot in the 2024 Dallas Shootout Law Enforcement & Military Basketball Tournament, winning first place in the competition held at the Plano Sports Authority2 on Seabrook Drive in Plano. Led by Coach Officer Elvis Scott, the team competed against law enforcement and military teams from across the country in this annual event, now celebrating its 20th year.
About the Battle of the Badges Tournaments
The Battle of the Badges Law Enforcement Basketball Tournament originated in November 2000 to honor Maryland State Police Trooper Corporal Edward M. Toatley, who was killed in the line of duty on October 30, 2000, during an undercover narcotics investigation in Washington, D.C. Created initially as a means to support educational scholarships for Maryland students, the tournament has since evolved into a nationwide initiative to honor fallen officers and strengthen community ties. From 2002 to 2010, the tournaments raised over $10,500 for scholarships, and while scholarship funding remains a key focus, the primary mission has expanded to include recognizing fallen officers and supporting their families.
More than just a competition, the Battle of the Badges tournaments foster camaraderie among law enforcement, correctional officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and other first responders. With teams representing agencies from all over the United States, the events help bridge relationships across jurisdictions and with the communities they serve. The tournament aims to build trust, celebrate the sacrifices of law enforcement officers, and create opportunities for collaboration among police, corrections, probation officers, and others dedicated to public safety.
