ABOUT THE HOUSTON POLICE DEPARTMENT
The Houston Police Department (HPD) is one of the largest municipal law enforcement agencies in the United States, serving a city of more than two million residents. Since its founding in 1841, HPD has evolved alongside the City of Houston to meet the needs of a growing, diverse, and dynamic community.
Our Mission
The mission of the Houston Police Department is to enhance the quality of life in the city of Houston by working cooperatively with the public to prevent crimes, enforce the law, preserve the peace, and provide a safe environment.
What This Means in Practice
For those considering a career with the Houston Police Department, this mission, core values, and guiding principles shape the expectations of every officer. HPD officers are entrusted with serving the community through ethical enforcement of the law, sound judgment, and respectful engagement, often in complex and challenging situations.
Officers are expected to work collaboratively with residents, uphold constitutional principles, and carry out their duties with professionalism, accountability, and integrity. This commitment to service, public trust, and community safety is central to life as an HPD officer and guides how officers train, make decisions, and serve the City of Houston.
A Career with Many Paths
In addition to patrol operations, HPD offers a wide range of career opportunities across multiple commands and specialized units. Officers may pursue assignments that align with their skills, interests, education, and experience in areas such as:
- Field Operations & Patrol
- Criminal Investigations
- Special Victims & Homicide
- Narcotics & Gang Enforcement
- Intelligence & Homeland Security
- Traffic Enforcement & Air Support
- Airport Operations
- Training, Recruiting & Professional Development
- Mental Health Response & Emergency Communications
- Tactical & Specialized Operations
As officers gain experience, they may apply for specialized assignments, promotional opportunities, or leadership roles throughout the department.
A Department Shaped by Its History
HPD’s history reflects the broader history of the City of Houston — shaped by change, growth, and the ongoing responsibility to serve a diverse community with fairness and respect.
Throughout its history, HPD has been shaped by innovation, reform, and the dedication of the men and women who have served before. The timeline below highlights key milestones in the department’s growth, progress, and commitment to public service.
First female assigned as SWAT Commander HPD Tactical Operations Division purchased “SPOT” a quadruped robot
Officer Staffing reached 5,281 HPD Managed large-scale demonstrations during a period of natural unrest, emphasizing crowd safety, de-scalation, and the protection of constitutional rights
HPD converts statistical reporting from UCR to the National Based Reporting System (NIBRS)
Houston Astros win their first World Series resulting in major mobilization for celebration response. Houston hosts Super Bowl LI (51st) played at NRG Stadium resulting in significant coordination of public safety.
Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance (HTRA) is formed.
Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) devices are installed in police vehicles.
First Body Worn Cameras are piloted. Department transition out of the light blue uniform shirts to dark blue colors.
Public Safety Video Network (PSVN) was developed. South Gessner Division (previously known as Fondren) opens a new substation.
Real-Time Crime Cener, Crime Reduction Unit was created. Air Support Division fleet consisted of 14 helicopters
HPD launched first social media site on Facebook.
Command Center was formed. Hurricane Ike struck Houston causing major damages to Downtown enlisting major coordination for public safety. Development of Crisis Intervention Response Team (CIRT).
Formation of Mental Health Unit.
Hurricane Rita forced Houston residents to quickly evacuate causing increase crime stats and incredible traffic bottlenecks. Houston Police Foundation was established. SafeClear (now known as Tow and Go) was created as a collaboration between HPD and City of Houston.
First class on Mental Illness was developed for police officers.
Officer staffing reached 4,700
Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) was adopted
The murder of Houston resident Jose “Joe” Campos by HPD officers exposed serious misconduct and racial injustices, leading to federal intervention, officer prosecutions, and major reform including the creation of Internal Affairs and improved community relations
Officers were allowed to wear short sleeve shirts as part of their uniform
Communications Division moved to new headquarters at 61 Riesner
New Helicopter Hangar was built Houston hosts Super Bowl VIII (8) at Rice Stadium
Purchase of the department’s first Bulletproof Vests
Officer staffing reached 1,158
Mr. Edward Thomas, the longest serving Police officer at HPD with 63 years of service, joined HPD
Officer staffing reached 340
HPD began reporting crime statistics to the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) System A structured in-service school was established
Second substation was established
HPD transitioned out of the star-shaped badges
Installation of first Gamewell police call boxes
Purchase of first hounds (K9) City Council confirmed new Detectives
Applicants and community members interested in learning more about HPD’s history are encouraged to visit the Houston Police Department Museum, which preserves artifacts, stories, and exhibits highlighting the department’s legacy and evolution.
Understanding HPD’s past helps inform the department’s mission today and the role future officers will play in serving Houston.