Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott presented the Texas Officer of the Year Awards at the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas (CLEAT) annual convention, recognizing law enforcement officers for their service in keeping Texas communities safe.

"Public safety starts with our law enforcement," said Governor Abbott. "You cannot go to work, you cannot go to school, you cannot go shopping, you cannot live in your community and feel safe without the support of law enforcement to ensure that safety. You don’t get thanked enough for your bravery, for your valor, and what you do for our state. I am grateful for you and your work to keep our communities safe. We look forward to working with you to achieve our joint mission, and that is to make Texas safer every single day."

The event was attended by CLEAT President Scott Leeton, CLEAT Executive Director Robert Leonard, CLEAT Deputy Executive Director Jennifer Szimanski, award honorees, and other law enforcement leaders.

During the ceremony, Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of law enforcement in protecting Texans. He referenced actions taken during the 89th Legislative Session, where a significant bail reform package was passed with the aim of keeping dangerous criminals off the streets. The Governor also expressed appreciation for all Texas law enforcement officers' dedication and commitment to public safety.

The recipients of this year's Texas Officer of the Year Awards include Jessica Caro from El Paso Police Department; Jason Davis from La Marque Police Department; Ilse Gerardo from Dallas Police Department; Suracy Gonzalez from El Paso County Sheriff's Office; Michael Gutierrez from McAllen Police Department; Harvey Richard "Dick" Hill from Arlington Police Department; Scott Leeton from Corpus Christi Police Department; Hayden McAdams from Potter County Sheriff's Office; Ashton Moss from Vidor Police Department; Michael Nelson from Tarrant County Sheriff's Department; Daniel Pollard from Bexar County Sheriff's Office; Jairo Sanchez from San Antonio Police Department; Michael Stephenson from Vidor Police Department; Frank Tapia from San Antonio Police Department; and Ben Wright from Fort Worth Police Department.

Additional photos of the event are expected to be made available later.