Houston police relieve officer of duty following DWI arrest

The Houston Police Department (HPD) has relieved a police officer of duty following his arrest for allegedly driving while intoxicated (DWI). The officer, identified as 35-year-old Brandon Walter, was off-duty at the time of the incident.

In a statement shared on its social media profiles, the HPD stated, "HPD holds its officers to the highest standards and will take appropriate action up to, and including, termination."

According to authorities, Walker was arrested on September 30th and was subsequently booked into the Harris County Jail. During the arrest, Walker allegedly resisted officers while they attempted to draw his blood. His bond was set at $100.

"As is standard protocol, he has been relieved of duty pending an investigation by the Internal Affairs Division," the HPD stated.

Walker joined the force in November 2020 and was assigned to the Southwest Patrol Division.

This is the second incident involving a Houston officer being arrested for DWI in the past month. Phillip Marquez was arrested after being found intoxicated next to a stalled motorcycle. However, the Harris County District Attorney's Office declined to pursue the case due to a lack of evidence that Marquez had operated the motorcycle while intoxicated.

The HPD's swift response in relieving Walker of duty reflects their commitment to maintaining the highest standards within the department. The investigation will determine the appropriate disciplinary action, which could include termination.