Houston Mayor Turner names new Deputy Inspector General

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has announced the appointment of Christina Nowak as the new Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the city's Office of Policing Reform and Accountability. Nowak, an Alief native, will be responsible for investigating complaints and working closely with the Independent Police Oversight Board (IPOB). She takes over from Crystal Okorafor, who stepped down to pursue a job in the private sector. In her new role, Nowak will also play a crucial part in organizing gun buybacks and other initiatives under the One Safe Houston program, which aims to reduce crime and restore public confidence in law enforcement.

Mayor Turner expressed his confidence in Nowak, stating that she has the necessary background and experience to take the role to the next level. Nowak, who previously served as a Senior Investigative Attorney in the Office of Inspector General, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and her determination to continue the progress made by her predecessor in making Houston a safer place. She emphasized her commitment to increasing trust, fairness, justice, and mutual respect between the police department and the community.

Nowak's impressive credentials include a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at Austin and a juris doctorate from the South Texas College of Law. She began her law career in New York City as an assistant district attorney in The Bronx County District Attorney's Office before working in the municipal government of the city. Nowak returned to Houston in 2021, ready to contribute her expertise to her hometown.

With the appointment of Christina Nowak as the new Deputy Inspector General, Mayor Turner is confident that she will play a vital role in furthering the goals of the One Safe Houston initiative and ensuring that the citizens of Houston have a voice in maintaining public confidence. Her experience, qualifications, and dedication make her well-suited for the position, and her appointment signals the city's commitment to transparency, accountability, and building a stronger relationship between the community and law enforcement.