BADGE GUN - Houston Police Officers' Union · 2020. 1. 2. · HPOU recognized Narcotics Officer...

END OF WATCH

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTENDECEMBER 7, 2019

“Chris was one of the best of us and his life and sacrifice will not be forgotten. There’s a big hole in all of the hearts that mourn because of what a wonderful human being he was. Chris, you’re a hero to us all. I love you and I miss you, my brother and my friend.” - JJ COLE

TEXAS’ LARGEST POLICE UNION WWW.HPOU.ORG

BADGE&GUNTHE PUBLICATION OF THE HOUSTON POLICE OFFICERS’ UNION

VOL. XLVI - NO. 1 - JANUARY 2020

AWARDS & HONORS

KAWANSKI NICHOLSDirector 1

[email protected]

DEBBIE LAHAIEDirector 3

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DAVID RIGGSDirector 5

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ART MEJIADirector 4

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STEVE TURNERDirector 7

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JOSEPH CASTANEDADirector 9

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TUAN VAN LEDirector 10

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TIM WHITAKERDirector 12

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DAVID VASQUEZDirector 13

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ROBERT SANDOVALDirector 14

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LUIS MENENDEZ-SIERRADirector 15

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RHONDA WILLIAMSDirector 16

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ROBERT MEDEL, JR.Director 17

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TERRY SEAGLERDirector 18

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JASON ALDERETEDirector 19

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NORMA LAZODirector 20

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ERIC [email protected]

RHONDA WILSONAssistant Secretary

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3rd VICE PRESIDENTTom Hayes

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2nd VICE PRESIDENTKen Nealy

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SECRETARYDan Levine

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1st VICE PRESIDENTDoug Griffith

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PRESIDENTJoe Gamaldi

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BOARD MEMBERS NOT PICTURED

TIM BUTLERTreasurer

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COLE LESTERAssistant Secretary

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ALEX MAYODirector 2

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CHRISTIAN DORTONDirector 6

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RICHARD BRASUELLDirector 8

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THOMAS HARDINSergeant at [email protected]

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

FRED RODRIGUEZDirector 11

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AWARDS & HONORS

1 BADGE&GUN | January 2020

THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGENew Year, new City Council, but watch out for ‘new’ contract rumors as we plan to negotiate benefits competitive with other big U.S. cities

JOE GAMALDI, PRESIDENT

Let me start by wishing you all a happy and prosperous new year!With the new year comes a newly elected Houston City Council. The HPOU was once again very successful in our runoff endorsements. Every single one of our endorsed candidates won their races and insures for the next four years we will have a City Council that understands the issues impacting Houston police officers and supports realistic solutions to those issues. Whether it be staffing – they have all committed to our continued growth – or continuing to stay

competitive in our pay and benefits. These conditions prevail for us while law enforcement applications continue to plunge nationwide to the tune of 63 percent.

Speaking of pay and benefits, I have just sent a letter to Mayor Turner to notify him of our intention to begin contract negotiations, as our current agreement expires on Dec. 31, 2020. For those of you who haven’t been here when we negotiate a contract, or need a refresher, these negotiations can take anywhere from six to eight months. So, we need to get started now. We will send out a survey to the entire HPOU membership, as we have done for several contracts, to make sure everyone’s voice is heard and so we know where our focus needs to be.

Obviously, number one will always be pay raises which keep up with our comparable cities and is always the major focus going into every contract. But it’s always important to identify other issues. When negotiations with the city are completed, we will make the entire document available to all of you. As is a Union tradition, we also will have numerous informational meetings before we conduct our contract vote.

The vote consists of us keeping the Union Building open for several days, 24 hours a day, for everyone to come by and vote. If the contract is ratified, it then goes to Houston City Council for final approval.

Undoubtedly, as we get rolling, the HPD rumor mill will enter its fever pitch. Those of us on the negotiating team sign a confidentiality agreement and we will be unable to discuss specifics while the negotiations are ongoing. Of course, we do our best to manage the rumor mill, but I am asking everyone to be careful of spreading rumors. Don’t take it as gospel simply because your co-worker heard something from their buddy’s cousin, twice removed on their mother’s side.

As a pre-emptive strike, let me address two rumors I have already heard. For one, we aren’t giving up the PD days and, for another, we aren’t giving up phase down. If you are spreading these rumors, just stop! You looked foolish the last two times you said it for the previous two contracts, and you will look foolish again this time.

We would never bring a contract to our members that won’t pass with an overwhelming majority, just as every contract in our history has done.

Meeting with President Trump about DAs, Judges

As you are well aware, we at the HPOU have not been shy about pointing out issues with a number of the judges in Harris County and, of course, the current district attorney, Kim Ogg. We have continued to draw attention to the revolving-door criminal justice system that has been ushered in under the current regime, and these practices have been met with disgust by the community.

Every day there is a member of our community who asks why is this happening? Why are habitual offenders being given a pass?

We have drawn so much attention to the problem that after we recently profiled a suspect receiving bond for murdering Sgt. Sullivan from Nassau Bay, Gov. Abbott vowed to pass a law in the next Legislature insuring “no bond” for all cop killers. But this problem is not just here in Houston; it is nationwide and other police unions in big cities across the country have joined the fight. Our work has garnered so much outrage that President Trump invited us to the White House to discuss these pressing issues.

It was an honor to represent the Houston Police Officers Union and the Fraternal Order of Police at this meeting. When I spoke to the President, I made it very clear what our issues are. While crime is trending downward nationwide, in our big cities it is flat or trending up. The statistics show it is because repeat offenders are getting sweetheart deals, free to commit more crimes with no consequences.

We all know if hardened criminals do not fear punishment, they become even more emboldened. It’s why criminals routinely tell our officers that they won’t even go to Montgomery County to do a robbery because they would get 50 years for it. Meanwhile, in Harris County they would get probation.

The President immediately offered additional resources to federal prosecutors for them to take additional cases out of the hands of local DAs and agreed to lend his voice to our issues. The truth is, folks, being tough on violent crime should not be a left or right issue. Nor should it be a partisan issue. We can all agree that if some dirtbag points a gun in someone’s face and robs them, they should go to jail for a long time. This is common sense and every reasonable person I speak to agrees!

As always, be safe out there and if you need anything I am only a phone call, text away, or you can also reach me at the following: email ([email protected]), messenger on Facebook, DM on twitter (@JoeGamaldi). n


EDITORIAL

Officer Steve Magness’ work with narcotics task force earns him HPOU’s Investigator of the Month honors in December

HPOU recognized Narcotics Officer Steve Magness as its Investigator of the Month in the December general membership meeting.

Officer Magness is a member of the Houston Money Laundering Initiative, which consists of law enforcement officers from the federal, state and local levels.

As part of his duties, Magness investigated a suspect who allegedly was a primary distributor of crystal methamphetamines in the Houston area. Magness “galvanized his task force, using various methods of surveillance of the suspect. The team observed the suspect delivering drugs to several small level distributors. After gathering information about the main collaborator’s living quarters and distribution mechanism, Magness arrested the suspect.

Then the real work began. Magness developed a rapport with the suspect which was helpful in obtaining consensual searches of two apartments.

“Upon entering the first apartment, evidence made it obvious that this location served as a meth lab distribution center,” according to information in the form nominating Magness for this monthly honor. “Due to the hazardous nature of these drugs,

Get the HPD number correct: 5,366 officers – and counting!

POLICE OFFICERS EVERYWHERE HAVE THE HABIT of sharing rumors. Some of these wild stories split the hairs of humanity and can frequently entail numbers games of all amounts and decimal places.

HPOU President Joe Gamaldi cited one example in the December general membership meeting. He pointed out that officers always seem to be misquoting the number of officers on the Houston Police Department roster.

Ever the rumor-buster, Gamaldi cited HPD’s latest number: 5,366 officers – from the chief down to the rookie at the end of the alphabetical order of the latest graduates of the Academy.

He boiled it down as follows:• 4,150 commissioned officers• 948 sergeants• 208 lieutenants• 44 captains• Eight assistant chiefs• Two executive assistant chiefs• One chief of policeGamaldi pointed out that during the New Year of 2020 that 5,366

number should grow with the graduation of even more police cadet classes.

The point here is that the HPD number is growing, not shrinking, as has been the previous case. The Department historically has been underfunded, undermanned and underequipped. It’s good to see the new year begin with numbers that are increasing, not decreasing. n

Get ready for the biggest ATO Heroes’ Gala ever!By: Tom Kennedy, Editor

Last year tickets to the Assist the Officer Heroes Gala were in such demand that the venue bulged to over-capacity.That heavy demand prompted the planners for this exciting 3rd annual tradition to move to a new bigger location, with a new band, and new host hotel! Still convenient to the HPOU’s office and downtown amenities.

Tickets are $95 each ($190 per couple) and available online. Mark the date, if you haven’t already, to Saturday, March 28 at that new venue, the Ballroom at Bayou Place, located at the old Albert Thomas Convention Center, 500 Texas Avenue. Even the dinner tables are larger than before, accommodating 10 instead of just eight people. Cost to reserve a 10-top table is $950. Ticket link: bidpal.net/2020heroesgala.

“We have more space for more people to attend,” event co-chair Gabriela Gregory said. “We’re looking for about 500 guests this year. Last year there were people calling and asking for tickets right up until the last minute. Gregory was careful to stress, “The Assist the Officer’s 3rd Annual Heroes’ Gala will be more exciting and grander than the previous years, so be sure to visit ATO’s Facebook for sneak peaks!”

The gala has become the ideal place for HPD and the supporters of Assist the Officer to dance, have fun and, especially, to honor the heroes of the Department.

The ATO will recognize the Officer of the Year and the Investigator of the Year based on the monthly honorees recognized by the Houston Police Officers Union. Last year a total of eight HPD officers – four in each category – were named as heroes.

Once again, popular radio DJ Dana Tyson of Sunny 99.1, the friend to numerous Houston police officers, will serve as emcee. However, with a new and larger band, Infinite Groove, “the ambassadors of fun,” will be tuned in as the dance band on a bigger-than-ever dance floor.

The premier host hotel will be the historic Lancaster Hotel which is only steps away from the ballroom. Call 713-228-9500 to reserve a room with discount code ATO by Feb. 25. These special ATO accommodations include a gourmet breakfast buffet, complimentary premium high speed WIFI, 10 percent discount off Cultivated F+B restaurant located in the hotel, welcome champagne/sparkling water at registration, and complimentary snacks/drinks in your room.

This year will also include a Ladies and Men’s raffle (do not need to be present to win) and it will feature customized thin blue line watches. More items to be announced! Co-chairing the event with Gregory is Sgt. Matt Williams.

Doors open at at 5 p.m. Saturday the 28th. HPOU/ATO Photographer Gary Hicks will be available to take pictures of couples and groups – free of charge! The sit-down dinner will begin at 6 p.m. with the presentations of the heroes to promptly follow.

“Assist the Officer is very excited about this year’s program,” ATO chairman Tom Hayes said. “It’s always a great honor and privilege to recognize the officers who have stood out as heroes this year and every year.” n

CONTINUES ON PG. 3

AWARDS & HONORS


HPOU honors Officers Amesquita and Steward as Officers of the Month for a successful investigation

The Houston Police Officers Union honored Officers George Amesquita and Daniel Stewart as Patrol Officers of the Month for their work apprehending two robbery suspects.The two were nominated by Officer Felix Lopez, who commended

the officers for performing their duty “through the most trying of circumstances” and for “fearless actions in the face of danger.”

Steward was a rookie in training under Amesquita’s tutelage on July 10 when the two got the call of a robbery scene where their investigation led them to two suspects hiding in a bathroom stall in a nearby Jack in the Box.

The officers arrested both suspects. Lopez said, “Their relentless pursuit to catch the suspects and their dedication to the job and the citizens of Houston are uncanny – something I have seen many officers at Southwest station do many times.”

The two officers’ investigation saw the recovery of the stolen items as well as their dedicated attention to the details that were required in their paperwork. Lopez said much of this work was performed under the hot July sun, yet Amesquita and Steward were never deterred. n

HPOU’s Luis Menendez-Sierra presents Patrol Officers of the Month honors to Officers Daniel Stewart and George Amesquita at the December general membership meeting. Officer Amesquita brought along his beautiful daughter. Photo by Gary Hicks

Thank you!To everyone at HPOU,On behalf of our entire family, thank you for the beautiful flowers and for your thoughtfulness.

Wayne Carr,Uncle of Stephen Carr

HPOU,The plant was beautiful. Thank you all.

The Nance Family

HPOU,Thank you so much.

By the family of Shelia Ann Semien-Johnson

Dear HPOU,Thank you for the beautiful flower arrangement for Jo Bankston. It was so thoughtful. Hope you all have a wonderful holiday.

The Bankstons

HPOU,My family and I would like to thank the Union members for the beautiful plant sent to our loved one’s funeral service. It brought us much comfort knowing we were in your thoughts and prayers.

The Mihalco and Garcia family

Officer Magness notified the High Hazard Clandestine Lab Unit who retrieved the drugs and processed the scene.”

Magness’ investigation found that the main suspect was a member of the La Linea Cartel in Mexico. The arrest severely impacted the cartel’s distribution ability. Confiscated were the following:

• 144 pounds of crystal meth• 186 grams of the highly dangerous fentanyl• $50,240 cash• Three firearms• An additional six pounds of crystal meth from related

investigationsIt was later learned that several children and elderly individuals

resided in this same apartment building exposing them to harsh fumes and the danger of explosion of these highly explosive dangerous drugs.

HPOU commended Magness for his tenacity, dedication and commitment to duty for his work. n

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2020 HPOU Scholarship Instructions/Application To qualify for a scholarship, a student must:

• Be a dependent of an active or retired member in good standing with the HPOU • Be a high school senior who will be entering college for the first time • Submit the application along with a copy of his or her official high school transcripts • Submit a written essay of 3-4 pages on a topic that has been selected by the HPOU Education

Committee • Submit a signed HPOU Scholarship Commitment Letter • Have all these documents and the essay in the office of the Houston Police Officers' Union by

4pm on March 6, 2020. o Official transcripts mailed by the students’school must be postmarked by March 6, 2020.

Please submit all documents in a letter sized manila envelope with your name on the outside. Your envelope should include the following:

• Completed Application Form • Official High School Transcript** • Essay* • Completed Commitment Letter

**Official High School Transcripts: High School transcripts must be “Official” Sealed Transcripts Issued from your high school. Unofficial transcripts will not be accepted, transcripts issued to student/parent that are not sealed will not be accepted and official transcripts that have been opened or the seal broken will not be accepted. Please do not include letters of recommendation; they will not be included in the scoring process. *Essay Instructions: Please submit, in your own words, a typed, double-spaced essay 3-4 pages in length. Your paper should be typed in 12 pt. Times New Roman font with a 1inch margin. You may attach a cover sheet with your name; however, we request that you DO NOT type your name on the essay itself.

Applicants whose submissions are late or do not comply with all the listed criteria will have their application and documents returned. There will be no resubmissions.

2020 Topic Now that most officers in the United States are wearing body cameras do you believe that police departments should have to immediately release the footage of a critical or controversial incident to the public? Please explain. DEADLINE: All applications, essays and transcripts are due in the HPOU Office no later than 4 p.m. Friday, March 6, 2020.

*Official transcripts mailed by the students’ school must be postmarked by March 6, 2020.


2020 HPOU Scholarship Application NAME__________________________________________ Last First Middle Initial ADDRESS_______________________________________ __________________________________________ City Zip code HOME PHONE NUMBER_____________________________ HPOU MEMBER NAME/PAYROLL NUMBER____________________ YOUR HIGH SCHOOL_______________________________ YOUR HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ YOUR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ TOPIC: Now that most officers in the United States are wearing body cameras do you believe that police departments should have to immediately release the footage of a critical or controversial incident to the public? Please explain. *Essay Instructions: Please submit, in your own words, a typed, double-spaced essay 3-4 pages in length. Your paper should be typed in 12 pt. Times New Roman font with a 1inch margin.

You may attach a cover sheet with your name; however, we request that you DO NOT type your name on the essay itself.

DEADLINE: All applications, essays, commitments and transcripts are due in the HPOU Office no later than 4 p.m. Friday, March 6, 2020.

*Official transcripts mailed by the students’ school must be postmarked by March 6, 2020.



Scholarship Commitment Letter

I, , commit to use the scholarship money awarded to me by the Houston Police Officers’ Union, towards my tuition, housing, books, or any other education related expense that may arise following my graduation from High School.

By signing below I also understand that all scholarship documents must be submitted to the HPOU by 4pm Friday, March 6, 2020 (post marked for official transcripts) with no exceptions!

Signature:________________________________

Date: ____________________________________

1600 State Street Houston, Texas 77007 frbt.us

Dear Member,

Effective January 1, 2020, the group PPO (Indemnity) Dental and Vision plans will be insured by MetLife. New dental and vision cards will be mailed out in December.

You will enjoy the same rich benefits as you did with the Ameritas PPO (Indemnity) plan, but with MetLife’s expanded network of providers. You can see any dentist you choose or visit one of MetLife’s in-network providers to save even more money.

The new MetLife Vision plan will include current VSP providers, as well as exclusive providers only available through your MetLife plan. The new plan also includes a “Second Pair” benefit allowing you to get two pairs of lenses and frames in a 12-month period!

By consolidating Dental, Vision, and Life with MetLife, all coverages can be managed on the MetLife US app. Download it on the App Store or Google Play!

To continue to bring you comprehensive benefits, a small increase in premiums will also be effective with the plan changes on January 1, 2020. You can review the new premiums below.

Thank you for your patience during this transition. If you have any questions about your coverage, please call (832)-200-3410 for assistance.

Dental PPO (Indemnity) Vision

Member $40.34 Member $11.45 Member + 1 $85.82 Member + 1 $23.05

Member + Family $117.52 Member + Family $33.64

Sincerely,

First Responders Benefit Trust 1600 State St. Houston, TX 77007 (832)-200-3410 main (832)-200-3470 fax



IN MEMORIAMThousands hear tributes to HPD fallen hero as a dedicated officer, brave to the end, a bright soulful man with a great sense of humor

In Memoriam: Sgt. Christopher Brewster

By: Tom Kennedy, Editor

The evidence – testimony of a sort – clearly proved that Chris Brewster lived his nine years of duty on the Houston Police Department with deep dedication, empathy and a memorable sense of humor. The same thing was said about the entire 32 years he spent on Earth.

As Sgt. Justin Hayes, his academy classmate and best friend on the Blue, explained, he would put his buddy at the top of the list of “phenomenal proactive police officers.”

Sgt. Hayes aptly illustrated Brewster’s devotion to duty, always with moments of tongue-in-cheek humor. His oral memoir prompted intermittent laughs from the thousands gathered to mourn the loss of Sgt. Brewster on Dec. 12 at Grace Church Houston on the Gulf Freeway, the venue of three too many memorial services for HPD’s fallen heroes.

Hayes and Brewster, both nine-year veterans, grew up in Patrol, studied together and became sergeants at the same time, and had their share of unique experiences.‘That was Chris’

Hayes shared one (among several) about the burglary of a Sunnyside church:

“We caught the guy as he was running off with speakers he had taken from inside and got him into custody. While we’re waiting for the owner to come to the scene, we start clearing the rest of the building. I remember being all the way in the back when I hear what sounds like piano music.

“More than a little confused, I walk out and find Chris, singing and playing the church piano – 2 o’clock in the morning, no power on in this old, dark church, we’re supposed to be clearing and checking rooms, and there he is… playing the piano in the dark.

“My initial reaction was something like, ‘What in the world is wrong with you?’ But I learned over time, it was exactly that kind of stuff that was so right about him. That was Chris.”

The mourners gathered were obviously moved by Hayes’ words of recollection. The laughs could be heard aloud, yet the tears hit the floor silently, reverently. Those present learned the true meaning of the words “that was Chris” in a serviced filled with worthy tributes before Brewster’s wife Bethany, his parents and his three sisters. Also present were literally hundreds of Brewster’s Houston Blue family members, HPD cadets and representatives of law enforcement agencies from the four corners of the nation.

Sgt. Brewster was the 115th Houston police officer to give his or her life in the line of duty, the first since the drowning death of Sgt. Steve Perez in the 2017 flood drenching of

Hurricane Harvey. He was the second HPD officer to die on Pearl Harbor Day. Officer Timothy Abernethy was gunned down on Dec. 7, 2008. Brewster was shot to death this most recent Dec. 7.

An emotional Police Chief Art Acevedo referenced the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, citing the response of America’s “greatest generation” that fought and won World War II. Acevedo said Sgt. Brewster represented the best of his generation, supplying a radioed description of his attacker that enabled his colleagues to identify and arrest the suspect as the brave sergeant went to be with his Lord.

The suspect now lives in infamy. Brewster responded to a domestic violence call in Magnolia Park. Noting the victim’s identification of her attacker, he was shot multiple times as he emerged from his patrol car to flag down the suspect, Arturo Solis – who now faces capital murder charges.

Like each one of the speakers at the emotion-laden ceremony, Acevedo alluded to inspiration “from God above” to bring peace to the mourners and honor to a man he described as “an absolute hero.”

“When I got to the scene,” Acevedo recalled, “I got to see firsthand the excellence of Christopher Brewster – how he got that description out. I know his heart and the man above. Leadership isn’t about rank. It’s not about stripes. It’s not about bars. It’s about heart. It’s about character, and it’s about what he displayed.”

Acevedo has vowed to stay aggressive in expressing his opinions of the way gun-toting criminal-inclined individuals are often treated too leniently by judges and prosecutors as the laws being passed by elected politicians don’t seem to be tough enough on criminals.

Mayor Sylvester Turner followed up Houston’s police chief with absolute reverence and deep respect, informing those present that he had declared the day of the memorial service “Sgt. Christopher Brewster Day” in the Bayou City. Besides the written words in the official proclamation, the mayor spoke his mind. He described Brewster as making HPD better and Houstonians safer.A Deep Believer

“We’re here not to honor the way he died, we’re here to honor the way he served and the way he lived.”

The mayor’s words and account of his fellowship with Bethany Brewster again brought to fore Chris Brewster’s natural desire not only to keep learning and teaching the ways to becoming a better police officer but also his constant curiosity about his natural habitat and all the people around him. His hobbies of music and gardening were detailed by the speakers eulogizing him.

Turner was particularly articulate in his description of Brewster’s love of growing fruit trees, maintaining the fruit orchard at his home, always seeming to add a new fruit tree as often as he could.

CONTINUES ON PG. 9


IN MEMORIAMThe mayor noted that he had learned Brewster had planted

apple trees, peach trees, mango trees, pear trees, etc., etc., etc.“Fruit trees,” Turner said, “provide a lot of shade, roots

run deep and hold the land together, and they provide sustenance.”

Yes, they embody the worthy traits of Chris Brewster.Inspiring anecdotes and descriptions lasted throughout

the service. Besides Sgt. Hayes, JJ Cole, a lifelong friend of Brewster, also delivered a eulogy.

The stories and messages in both eulogies greatly moved the mourners present. With this in mind, the Badge & Gun has chosen to print verbatim copies of each of these tributes in this issue.

We just can’t leave anything out. Sgt. Hayes, we note, had another fruit-tree story bound to draw a laugh from any officer who has been confronted by an angry complainant, impatient about the time it took to answer the call.

Cole has known his friend Chris since grade school. The friendship grew deep and lasted through high school and well beyond.

Since he has known Brewster, Cole said he seemed to always be the biggest man in the room but “a teddy bear” who enjoyed wacky ways of having fun. He always seemed to take the lead, whether it was cruising around Sagemont, learning and teaching the guitar or leading a church youth group. Cole said he was initially skeptical about Chris fitting into a policing environment but quickly changed his mind when he saw the dramatic change in the discipline and attitude the young officer exemplified.

Cole thanked HPD and the Houston Police Officers Union for their helping the surviving family and friends in the wake of his great friend’s death. And then he added:

“The last thing that I’ll say about Chris is that he was a faithful follower of Jesus and he would want you to know that his life was not built on his many accomplishments, but rather on the firm foundation of Jesus alone.

“We will sorely miss Chris, his big personality, loud laugh, his humor, his unwavering loyalty, and love that he showed to all of us. I know that one day we will see him again but it’s hard to face the reality that after so many miles of doing life together, he won’t be with us anymore on this side of heaven.”

The vast domain of Grace Church was totally silent as the mourners heard Cole’s conclusion.

“Chris was one of the best of us and his life and sacrifice will not be forgotten. There’s a big hole in all of the hearts that mourn because of what a wonderful human being he was. Chris, you’re a hero to us all. I love you and I miss you, my brother and my friend.” n



IN MEMORIAM

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the verbatim eulogy delivered by JJ Cole, one of Sgt. Chris Brewster’s lifelong friends, at the Dec. 12 memorial service at Grace Church. Hello, my name is JJ Cole.I’ve known Chris my entire life, from pre-school up until now. I’m

honored to speak on behalf of friends and family as we celebrate what a tremendous guy Chris was to so many people here today.

I remember vividly in 1st grade, that Chris was already taller than his teacher by the end of the year. He was a BIG kid. And he had a big ole head, too. Tons of hair. So I was definitely intimidated by him initially, but it became clear pretty quickly that he was just a big ole teddy bear. He was very sweet, yet a bit wild at times. He loved to wrestle, I remember him at preteen camp wrestling pretty much anyone who was willing to go. He was a self-declared member of the DX generation and declared his allegiance to them often.

He only had one move though, and that was just laying on you until you tapped because he was just so much bigger than everyone. He was strong. He was a loud, playful, fun-loving, tender hearted kid. I think part of the reason he loved to rough house so much is because at home, he had 2 sisters and a mom who absolutely doted on him and were on his case all the time. He took joy in poking at his sisters and his mom and they would always say “Christopher, don’t do that.” Of course he poked in love, because he loved his parents and his sisters deeply. He was a mama’s boy through and through.

When we were a little older, he was one of the first people in our group of friends at church to start playing guitar. He was really the reason I first started playing as well- He could play any Incubus song on the guitar and I thought that was so cool. He also played the French horn at school. So many times we were on stage together in our JR high band at church and he’d be on the other side of me, always wearing his green beanie and playing his guitar way down low. He was a good musician and he was the one who always listened to the coolest bands.

In high school, we used to cruise all around Sagemont in his old Saturn just jamming to all the indie bands. He’d be like “ya, this bands the Appleseed cast, my sisters showed them to me.” We spent basically every Wednesday night and Sunday morning from junior high to high school leading worship together for our youth group at Sagemont and that’s where he and I really bonded as lifelong friends.

As an avid fan of the movies PeeWee’s Big Adventure and Tim Burton’s Big Fish, you could say that Chris had some quirky taste and was a bit quirky himself. Sure he was downright weird sometimes, but he was wonderfully weird. His silly, playful personality, was balanced with a deep sense of curiosity about our world.

He loved life and was a life-long learner— Sometimes that led to some strange hobbies. That’s ok. He knew a lot about a lot and he could talk to you about it for a long time. I appreciated and loved that so much about him. Most recently, as many of you know, he was a very active gardener. His backyard is full of fruit trees and plants and he prided himself in his homemade compost and his worm farm, yes, I said worm farm.

When Chris decided to apply for the police academy, I have to be honest, I didn’t initially see it as a fit. He was a math major when he started college, ok. I knew he liked to boss people around and

Chris Brewster EulogyBy: JJ Cole

was very opinionated but I just couldn’t see him arresting people. But when he was in the academy, I was awed at what a sharp guy he was. He had a tremendous work ethic and he graduated as the class leader in class 209.

When he finally donned his police officer’s uniform and began his watch, I knew that I had been sorely mistaken before. Because when you looked at him in uniform, not only did he look the part of an officer, but you could tell that he took a lot of pride in being an officer. He had a deep reverence for what his badge meant and he took being an officer very seriously and he was damn good at it. I can’t tell you how proud I am of him for his faithful and diligent service in helping keep our community safe.

While we were roommates in our early 20’s after he had joined HPD, I watched him transform into a disciplined and mature man. He began a strict paleo diet, meaning our kitchen was always a mess, and he started working out at a CrossFit gym nearby. The once BIG Chris became this chiseled, muscular dude with an awesome sleeve tat. He loved CrossFit and he used to make me take videos of him in our kitchen so that he could critIque his squat form.

He loved to coach me on my squat form as well and be like “whoah whoah, you’re going way past your knees.” And Bethany, I know that his main motivation in becoming a healthier version of himself is because he really wanted to score a date with you. He adored you and what he saw and found in you was this perfect match to all of his quirkiness, playfulness, creativity and curiosity about life. He loved you very much and was so proud to be your husband. I’m thankful to you for bringing out the best in him in these last several years. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention his dog Brienne as well and how he treated her like a queen.

The last thing that I’ll say about Chris is that he was a faithful follower of Jesus and he would want you to know that his life was not built on his many accomplishments, but rather on the firm foundation of Jesus alone.

We will sorely miss Chris, his big personality, loud laugh, his humor, his unwavering loyalty, and love that he showed to all of us. I know that one day we will see him again but it’s hard to face the reality that after so many miles of doing life together, he won’t be with us anymore on this side of heaven.

To the Houston Police Department as well as the Houston Police Officer’s Union, I want you to know how grateful his family and friends are for you and the great comfort and blessing you have been in this time. We are praying for you all as you bravely risk your lives day after day to protect us in a world that can be cold and cruel.

Chris was one of the best of us and his life and sacrifice will not be forgotten. There’s a big hole in all of the hearts that mourn because of what a wonderful human being he was. Chris, you’re a hero to us all. I love you and I miss you, my brother and my friend. n


IN MEMORIAM

EDITOR’S NOTE: Sgt. Justin Hayes was Sgt. Chris Brewster’s best friend in the Houston Police Department. Sgt. Hayes delivered this very moving eulogy as part of Sgt. Brewster’s Dec. 12 memorial service at Grace Church. The Badge & Gun presents this verbatim account.

I was fortunate enough to call Chris one of my best friends for 9 and ½ years. We met on the first day of the Academy, and it was just one of those things where our sense of humor, interests, goals within the department…they all just clicked. We formed lifelong bonds, along with a couple others from Class 209 - Ben Rothberg, Tyler Salina, and Steven Maciel.

After graduation, we both chose assignments to Southeast Patrol. We were partners on night shift, riding14D30N. We got into more stuff than two rookies had any business even thinking about doing, and there are a couple of 14 District Sgt’s that we probably still owe apologies to. Chris balanced me out as a police officer—especially as rookies. Where I was often impatient, Chris slowed me down. When I got complacent, he pushed me into developing new skills. Where I was quick tempered, Chris was calm and diffused situations with his goofy sense of humor.

I remember one particularly busy night, we had been getting hammered with Code 1’s and 2’s all shift, and come 3 o’clock in the morning, we were still trying to catch up and clear out calls holding in the beat. We took a Burglary report call that had been holding for like 6 hours and the homeowner was understandably upset by the time we got there.

We let the homeowner vent for a little while, and after a minute or so, I noticed Chris walking away. He had spotted a mango tree in the guy’s front yard, and in the middle of us getting yelled at, Chris walked over to inspect its leaves. Apparently he’d spotted some leaf disease on the tree, because the next thing I know, the homeowner is standing next to him and they’re both talking about tropical tree diseases and remedies to fix it. By the end of the call, Chris was making plans to return to check on the tree. That was Chris.

Another night, we on-viewed a burglary of a church in Sunnyside, right at the corner of McLean and Rosemont in 14D20’s beat. We caught the guy as he was running off with speakers he had taken from inside and got him into custody. While we’re waiting for the owner to come to the scene, we start clearing the rest of the building. I remember being all the way in the back when I hear what sounds like piano music. More than a little confused, I walk out and find Chris, singing and playing the church piano – 2 o’clock in the morning, no power on in this old, dark church, we’re supposed to be clearing and checking rooms, and there he is… playing the piano in the dark. My initial reaction was something like, “What in the world is wrong with you?” But I learned over time, it was exactly that kind of stuff that was so right about him. That was Chris.

After our time in patrol, we both transferred into the Crime Reduction Unit, where I had a front row seat to see Chris develop into an even more phenomenal proactive police officer and investigator.

We then spent all of last summer studying for the Sergeant Promotional Exam together—hours spent holed up at my house, along with Tyler Salina, the three of us creating and working through mock scenarios and practice questions. He pushed us just

By: Sgt. Justin HayesChris Brewster Eulogy as hard as he pushed himself. He had a driving force to be one of

the very best, but he took the time to make sure we succeeded right alongside him. That was Chris.

We promoted together in February of this year and were both able to return to Southeast for Sergeant training. Chris was beyond excited to be a street Sergeant. We had countless conversations on the kind of supervisors we thought we needed to be, and he must have told me a hundred times how much he looked forward to developing young officers. He was a leader to the end—on the street with his officers every day, working closely and offering guidance and assistance whenever, and wherever possible.

But Chris was so much more than a police officer. His interests and hobbies went far beyond what he did for a living, and he was constantly seeking out new curiosities and challenges.

He was my gardening buddy. We had frequent conversations on vegetable plants and fruit trees, soil nutrients, composting… One of the first things he did when he and Bethany bought their house was turn a large section of the backyard into a fruit tree orchard. I have a blackberry bush in my backyard that’s a cutting from one of his. It’s my son’s favorite and the one that gave out the most fruit last spring.

Chris was hilarious, with a goofy, awkward sense of humor for which he made zero apologies. He loved Christmas music, and Christmas time in general. My wife and I throw an annual Christmas party at our house, and one of my favorite parts was waiting to see what kind of crazy Christmas sweater he’d show up in. He loved good coffee and even better bourbon. He did great impressions. My personal favorite was his Kevin McAllister from “Home Alone.” At this point of each December, he would have acted out every scene from the movie.

But all of his interests paled in comparison to his love for his wife. His devotion to Bethany was inspiring to everyone around them. There was nothing he wouldn’t have done for her—he spoke of her constantly; she was his rock, and the most important thing in this world to him.

The last time I talked to Chris was last Wednesday. He called me up as he was driving around his neighborhood picking up bags of leaves that his neighbors had raked up and left out for him. He was planning to turn the leaves into compost tea for his fruit trees and gardens, and he was super excited. I’m sure that seems more than a little strange to most—a phone conversation between two guys about making compost tea out of recycled, raked up leaves. But as I’m standing here, still not quite accepting and believing most of this, I am so extremely happy that something like that was the last thing we talked about. That was Chris, and it’s things like that I’ll miss and remember him for the most. I love you brother. n

NEWS


HPOU Legal’s Mary Nan Huffman announces her run for Harris County district attorney in 2020

The Houston Police Officers Union makes no secret in its opposition to incumbent Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg.A September Badge & Gun editorial stated, “We still can’t say

anything positive for Ogg’s dealings with policing in Houston and the overall support for the needs of law enforcement throughout Harris County. We will give a thumbs-up when Ogg is defeated in the upcoming election year.”

Mary Nan Huffman, a member of HPOU’s dedicated Legal Department, has years of experience as a prosecutor. She will be running in the 2020 Republican Primary.

The Huffman campaign material issued to the Badge & Gun said:Mary Nan Huffman is the experienced conservative choice for

Harris County. She’s a mom and a smart tough prosecutor, not a politician. She is uniquely positioned to return the rule of law to Harris County, rebuild a broken and dysfunctional district attorney’s office and restore predictability and dependability. We deserve better than what we’re getting now.

Huffman grew up with her four siblings in the North Texas college town of Denton. Huffman watched her parent’s involvement in local Republican politics and learned from an early age the importance of public service. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Political Science degree and attended St. Mary’s University School of Law. While in law school, she worked at the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office and developed a passion for criminal prosecution.

Huffman served as a prosecutor in the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office for almost 10 years rising quickly to become the Chief Felony Prosecutor in the Child Exploitation Division and over the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Division. During her time as Chief of Child Exploitation she prosecuted a wide range of internet-related crimes committed against children: child human trafficking, the possession, production and promotion of child pornography, child sexual assault and any other case involving the sexual exploitation of children online. She directed the work of multi-agency task forces from federal, state and local agencies.

Huffman’s work as a prosecutor of child exploitation cases has earned criminal conviction yielding 11 life sentences and four 99-year sentences. She has earned a national reputation and is sought after as a special prosecutor for difficult child exploitation prosecutions. Huffman now works as an attorney for the Houston Police Officers Union representing officers in a variety of matters associated with duties as an officer.

Mary Nan has been married to Eli Huffman III for 11 years. The Huffman family attends St. Cecilia Catholic Church. They have two young sons. Huffman wants her children to grow up in a safe place and believes everyone deserves to feel safe. Huffman loves Harris County and thinks it’s one of the greatest, friendliest places to live, but believes our hospitality doesn’t have to extend to people who commit violent crimes. n

K9 officers stopped by to welcome friends and families of the officers on duty that day.

The meal service crew took time out for a festive team picture.

HPOU board members volunteered on Christmas day to provide lunch for officers working the holiday. From left to right, Alex Mayo, Position 2, Tim Whitaker, Position 12, Luis Menendez-Sierra, Position 15, and President Joe Gamaldi.

Dinner for officers on duty during the holidays

NEWS


The Marksmanship Team of the Houston Police Department has been actively shooting local and major shooting competitions in various disciplines during the teams inaugural season. The HPDMT was established in February, 2019, to promote, maintain, improve and advance marksmanship among Houston Police Department officers. The team is currently led by Commander Craig Bellamy (Gessner) and is made up of officers and sergeants from divisions across the city including; Narcotics, Training, IAD, Burglary

& Theft, Gangs, Air/Marine, Tac Ops, Robbery, CID, Office of Planning, South Gessner, Midwest, North, Downtown, South Central, South East, Eastside, Southwest, and IAH.

Representing the Houston Police Department and their sponsors, marksmen of the HPDMT demonstrate leadership, character, and excellence in the sports of action pistol, action shotgun, action rifle and multi-gun competitions. Since the team’s inception, the HPDMT has been able to progress rapidly from a concept, into a highly competitive and award winning team.

The marksmen posted outstanding results in the annual Cinco De Plinko Team Multigun Match, held May 11 in Cresson, Texas. The match was hosted by the Veterans Xtreme Adventures at the Triple C Range and was attended by 60 shooters. Despite the cold, rain and muddy conditions the team of Josh Sallee (Training) and Jerry McClain (Narcotics) finished first, the team of Chris Hartman (Narcotics) and John Gaytan (Narcotics) finished second while the team of Pete Esbrandt (Narcotics) and Rudy Madrid (IAH) finished a close fourth all in the 2-gun division.

In June members of the marksmanship team competed in the annual Texas Police Games hosted by the Texas Police Athletic Federation in Abilene, Texas. The Texas Police Games is well attended by law enforcement officers from federal, state and local agencies. Shooting multiple disciplines over the course of four days, the marksmen walked away with an astounding 27 medals: 7 Gold, 12 Silver, and 8 Bronze. Team members included Kevin Smith (South Gessner), Khoa Nguyen (Midwest), John Gaytan (Narcotics), Daniel Gianelloni (North), Paul Torre (South Central), Doug Dillon and John Dominques (Training), Bryan Moseley (B&T), Daniel Dinh (Southwest), Corey Arrington (Southeast), and Steve Forrester (Tac Ops). The 2020 games will be held in South Padre Island / Harlingen, Texas during the week of June 6 to June 12.

October was a busy month for the HPDMT as members competed in four events in Texas and Louisiana.

Team members earned several honors while competing in the USPSA Oil Field Classic held in Rosenberg. Commander Craig Bellamy (South Gessner) led the way finishing as High Overall in the single stack division. Sid Veliz (Narcotics) finished fourth Unclassified in the Carry Optics Division while Khoa Nguyen (Midwest) and Doug Dillon (Training) earned first and third place in the Production C Class Division and Robert Navarez (Tact Ops) and Travis Koryciak (South Gessner) earned first and second place

By: Jerry McClain, Narcotics Division

Houston Police Department Marksmanship Team making their name

in the Production Unclassified Division.Eighteen marksmen made the trip to Burnett, Texas to compete

in the Texas Law Enforcement Multigun Championship hosted by the Austin Police Department Marksmanship Team at the Reveille Peak Ranch. Six team members placed in the top twenty of their respective divisions. The competition at the match gets tougher every year with marksmanship teams from the Austin Police Department, Lufkin Police Department and U.S. Border Patrol in attendance.

The Louisiana Gator Classic is an annual match held at the Shootout Range in Princeton, Louisiana, home to Pro-shooter Jerry Miculek. Despite the poor range conditions that called for “Hurricane Harvey” boots due to two days of rain, Mike Junco (Midwest), Matt Lem (Narcotics), Jerry McClain (Narcotics) and Doug Dillon (Training) took top honors in four separate USPSA divisions that included Limited, Production, PCC (Pistol Caliber Carbine), and Carry Optics. The marksman earned High Law Enforcement in the Limited, Production, and PCC divisions as well as two third place finishes in Limited and Production A Class and a second place finish in PCC Unclassified (second to the great Jerry Miculek).

The winning did not stop there as David Venables (Training) and Rudy Madrid (IAH) travelled to Zachary, Louisiana and competed in a Law Enforcement / Military only multigun competition. David Venables finished in third place in the Tactical Optics division and an amazing sixth place out of three divisions combined.

The Houston Police Department Marksmanship Team has various sponsorships from Houston Police Foundation, Houston Police Officers’ Union, Primary Arms, Daniel Defense, Anderson Manufacturing, Safariland, and Radical Firearms.

Now, the marksmen look to the upcoming yearly competition cycle as they begin to prepare for local, regional and national competitions. n

HPD Officer and Boxer Cassandra Dominguez prepares to bring attention to Roccaforte and others in Smoker II ATO fundraiserBy: Tom Kennedy, Editor

It should go without saying that suspects in the territory of South Central Tact had better beware of SCT Officer Cassandra Dominguez and her ongoing training as a member of the HPD boxing team.

A college scholarship athlete before her HPD tenure began four years ago, Dominguez spent months working out with the boxers in HPD blue before she won her first-ever competitive bout at Smoker I a year ago.

The three-round bout against a heavier and more experienced HFD firefighter opponent saw the boxing rookie win her first effort by a 2-1 decision.

Gaining this confidence, Dominguez will be back for Smoker II on Saturday, Jan. 18 at Lucky’s Pub, 801 St. Emanuel.Raising Awareness and Funds

Admission is free. There will be food, drinks, music and a host of vendors, especially those with boxing merchandise.

CONTINUES ON PG. 14


NEWS

Officer Michael Agee, a leader in HPD boxing circles, told the Badge & Gun not to let the free admission fool you – this is another fundraiser for Assist the Officer Foundation.

Officer Dominguez will be part of a special boxing exhibition. No, she won’t be in an official boxing match but will be demonstrating techniques and moves learned this past year (since Smoker I) from professional boxing coaches.

Agee said his group will be taking donations to ATO as well as a 50/50 raffle and auctions. He explained that Smoker I required a toy donation for admission and resulted in the donation of more than 800 toys to the Children’s Assessment Center.

This year’s Smoker II is a different story.Agee said, “The benefit event is designed to raise awareness, to

support, celebrate, honor, and, most importantly, say Thank You to the first responders that put their lives on the line to protect the community.

“Officer Taylor Roccaforte gallantly performed his duty by stopping a violent crime spree in our city. Officer Douglas Moore came to the aid of Officer Roccaforte without hesitation and significantly improved his physical condition.

“Officer Vincent Zaunbrecher engaged the hostile threat, to end the threat to the officers.”

Thus, Smoker II will honor these three brave officers.“Taylor is on one of our squads,” Dominguez pointed out to

emphasize her special interest in working on the fundraiser.Last Sept. 12, Roccaforte tracked down a carjacking suspect and

got into an altercation with him. He was able to get off one shot but the suspect pumped three rounds into the officer, wounding him in his chest, his side and abdomen. Roccaforte’s fellow officers marveled at his quick recovery. The wounded officer was honored as the HPOU Patrol Officer of the Month in November.

Officer Zaunbrecher was helping Roccaforte when the suspect quickly appeared with gun in hand. Zaunbrecher shielded Officer Roccaforte and fired, hitting the suspect one time, stopping the threat on both officers.

As Agee stressed: “A police officer is tasked with not just enforcing the law, and he or she are also dedicated to protecting the community. Those acts usually last but a few moments but have a prolonged and profound impact on those involved.

“Every officer rises to the call of duty every time they walk through the doors at work. It seems credit is only given when they make the save, but that's not how it should be.”

Besides the honorees at Smoker II, Agee said Dominguez embodies the dedication of HPD officers to be the strongest law enforcement officers they can be. He said the exhibition epitomizes this dedication, showing the world that the young officer is stronger than ever as the protective shield between dangerous criminals and the solid citizens of the Houston communities.

Dominguez, a graduate of HPD Cadet Class No. 223 in December 2015, had earlier graduated from Cypress-Fairbanks High School before going to Concordia University in Austin on a volleyball and track scholarship. In track she excelled at throwing the javelin and discus. She graduated with a degree in behavioral sciences on May 2, 2015 and entered the academy on May 26. She is one of the growing number of HPD legacies – the daughter of Sgt. Frances Dominguez of the Internal Affairs Division.

“Once I became an officer I started getting into more situations where suspects wanted to run or wrestle around,” Dominguez explained. “I joined the SCT and that’s when I met Agee. He’s always trying to get people to come out and train and I decided I could use some training.”

After she started the workouts Dominguez saw that she “loved it” and began to stress self-defense “or any kind of contact sports so that when confronted I would know what I was capable of doing.Ready for Confrontations

“Boxing has really showed me how strong I am and what I’m capable of.” She works out with the other officers at least twice a week. It would be more often if boxing bouts were scheduled.

Okay, the B&G had to ask: Has she ever been confronted by a suspect who thought he – or she – could get the best of a female officer?

“I’ve been confronted several times,” she replied. “But I’ve never actually punched someone. Luckily, I’ve always had a partner there. I’ve come across guys on drugs who think they have super human strength. But I haven’t had any crazy injuries or anything like that. My partner and I were able to team up and get everyone in custody without any issues.”

Boxing has become a popular enough training pastime for both HPD and the Houston Fire Department to draw 25 officers and 25 firefighters on the respective boxing teams. They regularly compete in Guns and Hoses programs and fundraising activities such as Smoker II.

The primary training venue is the Martinez Boxing Gym in Midtown, just around the corner from South Central Station at 2201 St. Emanuel – near the University of Houston and Third Ward.

David and Allie Martinez have trained a growing number of boxers, both amateur and professional, over the years. Dominguez said fellow officer, Cynthia Garcia of North Belt Patrol also has become a competitive boxer. There will be three boxing matches pitting HPD officers against HFD firefighters at Smoker II but none involving either Dominguez or Garcia.

Agee said Dominguez will participate in a “hit-the-mit” exhibition, which entails the boxer striking the pads held by a boxing coach.

Agee especially wanted to promote Officer Cassandra Dominguez and her devotion to duty, saying she “also has given her free time to several boxing programs for at-risk youth in the community. She is an inspiration to not only to officers nationwide but youth in the community who see officers as role models.” n


LEST WE FORGET


Detective Chavez, Corrales’ Replacement, Killed in Domestic Disturbance on Houston’s East Side

By: Nelson Zoch, ContributorEOW: SEPTEMBER 17, 1925

On the evening of Wednesday, January 21, 1925, the lives of three individuals came abruptly to a violent end in the 2000 block of Congress Avenue at what was then near the eastern edge of the City of Houston.

There was Houston Police Detective Pete Corrales, an officer for just four short years, having joined the force in 1921. Corrales, married and the father of seven children, was nearing the end of his tour of duty at 9 p.m. He was in the barber shop section of an establishment at 2003 Congress that served as both a barber shop and soft drink parlor.

Detective Corrales and an older gentleman, Jesus Caceras, were seated in the barber shop. Through a thin partition, they overheard a very disturbing conversation. Corrales’ interest in what he heard cost him his life.

The conversation involved a twenty-five-year-old woman named Juanita Guzman, a native of Coahuila, Mexico. She had only been in the United States a short time and operated the soft drink stand at this location. She lived in the rear of 2003 Congress address. Also overheard in this conversation was Max Martinez, a Hispanic male later reported to own an interest in a restaurant on nearby Odin Avenue.

Martinez and Guzman had been dating for some time. Their relationship included numerous quarrels Even though she had broken off the relationship, most acquaintances felt that she had remained on friendly terms with Martinez. Unfortunately, Martinez was not able to let his feelings for this young woman rest On this night, Juanita Guzman was seated on a chair near the end of the partition where she could keep her eye on the soft drink counter as well as listen to the barber shop conversation. Naturally, the barber, Mr. Cantu, was present.

Martinez entered the establishment and ordered a soda from Guzman. She was heard to say, “I have none.” This was apparently a rebuke that Martinez was not mentally prepared to hear. The room became quiet for a few seconds. Witnesses heard muffled conversations but couldn’t understand the words.

A shot rang out, prompting Detective Corrales to draw his pistol and run around the partition. He confronted Martinez standing over the prostrate body of Juanita Guzman. The guns of both men blazed simultaneously and when the firing stopped, both Detective Corrales and his assailant Martinez were on the floor, critically wounded.

Detective Corrales managed to regain his feet and staggered to a nearby drug store where he waited for an ambulance. A Fogle-West ambulance arrived and rushed both men to St. Joseph’s Infirmary. Martinez died en route and Corrales died a short time later. Neither was ever able to speak after having been shot.

Five shots were fired, in what the Houston Press reported to have been the shortest gun battle in the records of the Houston Police Department. Juanita Guzman was dead at the scene, having been shot point blank in the face. Detective Corrales was struck above the heart and seen by witnesses with blood gushing from that fatal

wound. It wasn’t exactly clear where Corrales’ bullets hit Martinez but it was obvious that they also hit home.

While no obituary for Detective Corrales was published in the local newspapers, he left a wife and seven children. Newspaper accounts the next day reported the detective’s widow as saying, “He did his duty. He died as he lived—bravely. He did as I would have had him do. He faced danger without flinching.” The interview was reportedly done at their small cottage at No. 22 Chenevert as her seven children grouped around her. Some of them were too young to understand the gravity of the situation. They nodded in approval of their mother’s comments.

At this point, Mrs. Corrales wasn’t crying; her tears had all been shed during a seemingly endless sleepless night with her family. She also was quoted as saying, “I’ll be able to take care of the children some way.”

In a more detailed interview with Mr. Cacera, the following was learned: Further investigation determined that Guzman and Martinez had been involved in a relationship for some time. Their original relationship had broken off and it was believed to be on friendly terms – except from Martinez’ real point of view. He owned and operated a restaurant on nearby Odin Avenue and was still upset about the break-up. Martinez, in essence, was an early-day stalker, apparently unable to accept Guzman’s refusal to continue the relationship.

Funeral services were held for Detective Corrales on Saturday, January 24, 1925, at 2:30 p.m. from the modest Corrales family home at No. 22 Chenevert. Religious services followed at 3 p.m. at the Guadalupe Church, with the Reverend Father De Anta officiating. Burial took place under the direction of the Houston Undertaking Company at the Holy Cross Cemetery on North Main. Detective Corrales was the only Hispanic detective on the force at the time of his death. Six of his fellow officers carried him to his grave on that dark and dreary day in January. They were W. F. Blalock, W. H. Anderson, T. J. Lyons, Gus Butler, W. H. Cain and Tony Margiotta.

The Houston Post failed to carry stories about this tragic event and the Press and Chronicle provided only limited coverage. No plans were mentioned in either of the latter two publications regarding any financial assistance for Mrs. Corrales and her large family. The January 22 edition of the Chronicle ran a front-page photo of the inside of the business where the shooting happened. Featured in the photo was Mr. Caceres pointing to locations, probably in a reenactment of the crime. Also in the photo was Mrs. Eva Bacher, HPD’s first-ever female officer, who was seated in the same chair where Ms. Guzman was seated. Also shown were Herman Radke and F. Berner, city detectives. Detective Berner was the grandfather of retired HPD Robbery/Homicide Detective Frederick Berner.

Retired HPD Lieutenant Eli P. Rivera has indicated that he was in some manner related to Detective Corrales. Research through the Catholic Cemetery Association revealed an earlier date of burial than originally used in the story of Corrales’ death. Rivera found a woman who was the youngest of the seven Corrales children. She said in an interview that she was three years old at the time of her father’s death. In 2006, she was eighty-four years old. This daughter, Ruby, was believed to be the only living child of Officer and Mrs. Pete Corrales. This surviving daughter of one of Houston’s finest desired to maintain her privacy. Therefore, nothing more is known about the Corrales widow and children. n

LEST WE FORGET


Antonio Guzman, Jr.EOW 1/9/1973

Guy P. GaddisEOW 1/31/1994

Dennis E. HolmesEOW 1/10/2001

MIchael P. RomanEOW 1/6/1994

George G. RojasEOW 1/28/1976

Johnny T. BamschEOW 1/30/1975

Pete CorralesEOW 1/21/1925

Leon GriggsEOW 1/31/1970

Robert W. LeeEOW 1/31/1971

Louis L. SanderEOW 1/21/1967

S.A. “Buster” KentEOW 1/12/1954

Perry Page JonesEOW 1/30/1927

HONORING OUR OFFICERS

KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY

JANUARY


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OBITUARIESBankston

Retired Police Officer Jo Marie “Fena” Bankston passed away on Thursday, November 28, 2019. She is preceded in death by her husband, Police Officer James C. “J.C.” Bankston, father-in-law, Sergeant Garland W. Bankston, brother-in-law’s, retired Police Officer Garland L. Bankston and retired Police Officer Stanley J. Skearton. She is also the aunt of retired Police Officer Philip H. Bankston. Officer Jo M. Bankston joined the Houston Police Department on November 8, 1955, Academy Class No. 12. During her career, she was assigned to the Juvenile Division and the Narcotics Division until her retirement on March 15, 1985. Services were held December 4 with burial in Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery. (A profile of Jo Bankston was published in the January issue).

BurnsDoctor Jimmy Clay Burns passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2019, at the age of 84. He is the father of IT Project Manager Clay B. Burns, assigned to the Office of Technology Services. Services were held December 11 with burial in West Columbia.

CarrPolice Officer Stephen Carr of the Fayetteville Police Department, Arkansas, died in the Line of Duty on Saturday, December 7, 2019, at the age of 27. He is preceded in death by his mother, Senior Police Officer Tonya R. Wilson, who retired on March 3, 2012, while assigned to the Robbery Division. She was re-hired by the Houston Police Department as a Senior Clerk on September 21, 2015, assigned to the Robbery Division. She passed away on March 13, 2016; he is also the son of Retired Sergeant Paul A. Carr, last assigned to the Airport IAH Division, retiring on July 19, 2018. Services were held in Fayetteville on December 12.

CastilloMr. Jacinto “Jac” Castillo passed away on Sunday, December 1, 2019, at the age of 91. He is the father of Counselor Teresa Castillo, assigned to the Criminal Investigations Command. Services were held December 5.

ConleyMrs. Archie M. Conley passed away on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, at the age of 71. She is the mother of Senior Police Officer Yolanda E. Manley, assigned to the Airport IAH Division; and great aunt of Police Officer Danielle N. Rogers, assigned to the South Central Division. Services were December 27 with burial in Paradise North Cemetery.

DeschenskyMrs. Mary A. Euton Deschensky passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2019, at the age of 80. She is the widow of Retired Sergeant Edwin Deschensky, who passed away on November 11, 1989.Services were held December 23 with burial in Klein Memorial Park in Tomball.

GannRetired Police Officer Michael L. Gann passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2019, at the age of 72. He is preceded in death by his wife, Donna S. Gann. Officer Gann joined the Houston Police Department on January 22, 1973, Academy Class No. 58. During his career, he was assigned to the North Division and the Narcotics Division until his retirement on April 1, 1995. Services were held December 23 with burial in Garden Park Cemetery.

Garcia, B.Ms. Beatrice Rodriguez Garcia passed on Monday, December 2, 2019, at the age of 83. She is the mother of Executive Office Assistant Rose L. Bosworth, assigned to the Criminal Investigations Command, and mother-in-law of retired Senior Police Officer Keith R. Schirck. Services were held December 7.

Garcia, E.Retired Truck Driver Eraldo V. Garcia passed away on Wednesday, December 11, 2019, at the age of 84. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Garcia; son Retired Sergeant Eraldo V. Garcia, Jr. who retired on December 20, 2013; daughter Senior Police Officer Elizabeth G. Mihalco, assigned to the Major Offenders Division; son-in-law Lieutenant Albert J. Mihalco, assigned to the Tactical Operations Division; granddaughter Police Officer Valerie D. Martinez, assigned to the Training Division; grandson Police Officer Nicholas R. Mihalco, assigned to the North Division; and nephew Sergeant Roland Nieto, assigned to the Gang Division. Mr. Garcia was assigned to the Fleet Unit throughout his career with the department, retiring on February 16, 2002. Services were held December 17 with burial in Houston National Cemetery.

GreenhawMr. Jeffery Greenhaw passed away on Friday, December 6, 2019, at the age of 61. He is the father of Police Officer Jordan Greenhaw, assigned to the Auto Theft Division and father-in-law of Police Officer Maria Resnick, assigned to the Special Victims Division. Graveside services were held in Kemp, Texas on December 11.

GuzmanMr. Eloy Guzman Sr. passed away on Wednesday, December 11, 2019, at the age of 80. He is the father of Senior Police Officer Eloy Guzman Jr., assigned to the Northwest Division. Services were held December 27 in La Vernia, Texas. JohnsonMrs. Shelia Ann Johnson passed away on Monday, December 9, 2019, at the age of 67. She is mother of Lieutenant Arthur Semein, assigned to Major Assaults & Family Violence Division. She is the cousin of Sergeant Bernard Simien, assigned to Special Operations Division; Sergeant Jason Phillips, assigned to Gang Division; Police Officer Christopher Semien, assigned to Vehicle Crimes and Police Officer Anna Fontenot, assigned to Southwest Division. She is also the cousin-in-law of Sergeant John Meyers, assigned to Special Operations Division. Services were held December 23 with burial in Paradise Cemetery.


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HeadleyMrs. Myrtice B. Headley passed away on Friday, November 29, 2019, at the age of 89. She is the mother of retired Lieutenant Ronald E. Headley who was last assigned to the Tactical Operations Division until his retirement on March 19, 2011. She is also the grandmother of Sergeant Jeff A. Headley, assigned to the Cyber and Financial Crimes Division. Services were held December 6.

Huu CaoMr. Nghia Huu Cao passed away on Monday, December 2, 2019, at the age of 82. He is the father of Senior Police Officer Sippi C. Cao, assigned to the Northwest Division and grandfather of Police Officer Thuong S. Tran, assigned to the Vehicular Crimes Division. He is also the grand-uncle of Sergeant Steven Dau, assigned to the Criminal Investigations Command and Senior Police Officer Chanh Q. Dau, assigned to the Auto Dealers Division. Services were held December 7 with burial in Holy Cross Cemetery.

McKinneyRetired Sergeant Thomas F. McKinney passed away on Thursday, October 24, 2019, at the age of 88. He was a Veteran of the United States Air Force. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Anne McKinney. He joined the Houston Police Department on November 21, 1955, Academy Class No. 13. During his career with the department, he was assigned to the Central, Robbery, and Auto Theft Divisions. Sergeant McKinney retired on March 3, 2001. Services were held November 9 with burial in Marks, Mississippi.

OrsakMr. Arnold “Jack” Wood Orsak passed away on Monday, December 9, 2019, at the age of 80. He is the father of Senior Police Officer Jennifer L. Coffelt, assigned to the Criminal Investigations Command. Services were held December 14. OsbyMr. John Douglas Osby passed away on Sunday, December 15, 2019, at the age of 74. He is the father of Senior Police Officer Vantrisa L. Smith, assigned to the Southeast Division. Graveside services were held December 24 in Houston National Cemetery.

ReiserMr. Donald “Don” Eugene Reiser passed away on Sunday, December 15, 2019, at the age of 80. He is the father of Senior Police Officer William Reiser, assigned to the Special Victims Division and father-in-law of Lieutenant Katie Reiser, assigned to the Auto Dealers Division. Services were scheduled for January 11.

ScerboRetired Police Officer Joseph Scerbo passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2019, at the age of 75. He is a Veteran of the United States Army. He is survived by his wife, Mary K. Vadell Scerbo. He joined the Houston Police Department on August 20, 1973, Academy Class #61. During his career with the department, he was assigned to the Patrol Bureau, Juvenile, Employment Services, Major Offenders, Burglary and Theft, and Auto Theft Divisions. Police Officer Scerbo retired on May 27, 1994.

SolorioPolice Officer Gizelle Solorio passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2019, at the age of 32. She joined the Houston Police Department on October 24, 2016, Academy Class #230. She was assigned to the Northeast Division.

WilliamsRetired Sergeant Charles D. Williams, Jr. passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2019, at the age of 71. He is survived by his wife, Jean Ann Williams. He was a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He joined the Houston Police Department on March 29, 1976, Academy Class No. 74. During his career with the department, he was assigned to the Northwest, Central, Emergency Communications, Training, Burglary and Theft, and Personnel Divisions. He was also assigned to the Technical Services Command Administration. Sergeant Williams retired on March 7, 1998, out of the Special Operations Division. Sergeant Williams donated his body to science.

WoodMr. Luke Monroe Wood Jr. passed away on Sunday, December 8, 2019, at the age of 74. He is the father of Senior Police Officer Chris A. Wood, assigned to the North Division. Services were held December 14 with burial in Huntsville.

BADGE&GUN | November 2019


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Beautiful hill country property near marble falls. Three acres on an elevated section of “Summit Springs”, a developed, gated community off CR 401 in Burnet County with a few mesquite and oak trees and a panoramic view of the Colorado River Valley. One of the best lots in the development, it was purchased over a year ago and I’m asking the original selling price of 129K. Contact Bob Jones at Lake Homes Realty. Ask about lot 153. 832-283-3233Looking for a new home, or considering selling your existing home? Call Tammy Stevens a licensed Realtor with Century 21 Paramount, and wife of a Houston Police Officer. I specialize in the SE Houston area, including Clear Lake, League City, Friendswood, and Galveston county. I can assist you with buying, selling, or leasing a home. Reduce the stress of the real estate process, use a professional that understands your needs. Call Tammy Stevens with Century 21 Paramount at 281-507-9405 or email at [email protected] an amazing deal! Charming three bedroom two bath patio home located in a great gated community at 3123 Lavender Candle Dr. Spring, TX. Property includes a two car attached garage, master suite, cozy fire place and much more for only $1,300.00 month. Price is negotiable. Please contact Officer Edith Maldonado at 832-434-4266 or [email protected].

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Aurelia E Weems, CPA formerly Dumar Consulting returns to HPOU for its 9th Year to provide discounted tax services for officers and their families. Please watch for us on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:00am-2:00pm at the Union building at 1600 State Street. We are available to meet at any HPD location for the ease of the officers as well as accept information via email or fax. If you have any questions please contact Aurelia E Weems, CPA at (936) 273-1188 or (281) 363-4555 or visit us on the web at www.aewcpa.com.TAX PREPARATION From Home Office. Low Fees - $65 up. L. Dexter Price, CPA. ldexterprice@ comcast.net 713.826.4777

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