Austin Welcomes New Texas DPS Director
AUSTIN, Texas — In a notable shift for the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Public Safety Commission made an exciting announcement this Tuesday. They have unanimously chosen Freeman F. Martin as the new director of DPS! Currently serving as the senior deputy director, Martin will step into his new role beginning on December 1, as longtime director Steve McCraw prepares to retire at the end of the year.
From a Full House to Leading a State Agency
Freeman Martin’s journey to becoming the DPS director is truly inspiring. Growing up as one of 13 kids in a small town called New Deal, Texas, many might say he has come a long way! With over three decades of experience at DPS, he expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity during the announcement. “I never could have imagined this day,” he remarked. “It has been a privilege to work alongside dedicated and character-driven individuals who embody the core values of this agency. I’m committed to carrying out our mission of protecting and serving the people of Texas.”
A Track Record of Service
Martin brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. His biography showcases a career that has seen him tackle numerous challenges. He played a crucial role in the response to significant events like the Austin serial bomber, the tragic Sutherland Springs mass shooting, the devastation of Hurricane Harvey, and even Operation Lone Star. Pretty impressive, right?
Not only has he been on the front lines during critical incidents, but Martin also spearheaded the establishment of the Texas Anti-Gang Center in San Antonio and helped develop the Texas Rangers Major Crime Scene Response Team program. Plus, he supervises various programs aimed at supporting local law enforcement. It’s clear that he has dedicated his career to making Texas a safer place to live.
Climbing the Ranks
Freeman Martin’s experience with DPS dates back to 1990 when he began his career as a trooper in the Texas Highway Patrol division in Winnie, Texas. Since then, he has held various positions including being a Highway Patrol corporal in Lubbock, a sergeant in the Narcotics Service in Houston, and even a captain in the Texas Rangers. His remarkable journey continued with him earning accolades and climbing the ranks to eventually become a regional commander for Central Texas in 2014 and then being appointed deputy director four years later.
Looking Forward
The entire DPS community is buzzing with excitement over Martin’s appointment. With his extensive background and experience, many believe he is the perfect fit to take the reins. As he prepares to lead, Martin’s statement about his commitment to the agency and its mission underscores his dedication to ensuring public safety. “To lead this organization that I love is the honor of a lifetime,” he said, emphasizing his gratitude to the Public Safety Commission and the governor for placing their trust in him.
What’s Next?
As the clock ticks down to December 1, you can bet everyone will be keeping an eye on what’s in store for the Texas Department of Public Safety. With Freeman Martin at the helm, the people of Texas can expect focused leadership and a continued commitment to keeping communities safe. Whether tackling crime, emergency response, or supporting local law enforcement, one thing is for sure: Martin is ready to get to work!
