New Houston Police Chief Announced by Mayor John Whitmire
Mayor John Whitmire has announced that J. Noe Diaz will be taking over as the new police chief of Houston on August 14. This comes more than three months after the departure of former Police Chief Troy Finner.
Critical Time for the Houston Police Department
The announcement of J. Noe Diaz as the new police chief comes at a critical time for the Houston Police Department. Just days before the announcement, Acting Chief Larry Satterwhite presented a report to the Houston City Council regarding controversial coding that led to the suspension of over 260,000 cases.
A New Era for HPD
Mayor Whitmire and Chief Diaz are hopeful that this transition marks the beginning of a new era for the Houston Police Department. They aim to bring about positive change and a fresh start for the division.
J. Noe Diaz’s Background
J. Noe Diaz comes from the Katy Police Department, where he has served as chief since March 2019. Prior to that, he worked for the Harris County 5th Precinct Constable’s Office and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Diaz has a strong law enforcement background, including a stint with the Texas Rangers and involvement in the FBI’s Public Corruption Border Task Force.
Troy Finner’s Retirement
Former Police Chief Troy Finner announced his retirement in May, after serving as chief since March 2021. Following his retirement, Larry Satterwhite stepped in as the acting police chief. Finner, who had been with the department for 34 years, cited external pressure as a factor in his decision to retire.
In conclusion, the appointment of J. Noe Diaz as the new police chief of Houston signals a new chapter for the Houston Police Department. With a focus on transparency and accountability, Mayor Whitmire and Chief Diaz are committed to leading the department into a brighter future. The challenges ahead are significant, but with strong leadership and a dedicated team, positive change is on the horizon.
