DPS Current News

DPS Launches New Border Mounted Patrol Unit, Graduates Inaugural Class

November 22, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever Border Mounted Patrol Unit, a dedicated team of highly trained Texas Highway Patrol (THP) Troopers paired with equine partners who are equipped to address the unique challenges of patrolling Texas’ rugged border terrain.

DPS Graduates Eight New K-9 Teams and Three K-9 Tech Trainers

November 22, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) proudly announces the graduation of eight new K-9 teams and three certified K-9 Tech Trainers, strengthening DPS’ ability to protect and serve Texans statewide. These teams will serve as a critical resource in enhancing public safety, providing specialized support in narcotics detection as well as tracking.

PSC Selects Freeman F. Martin as New DPS Director

November 20, 2024

AUSTIN—Today, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced that Senior Deputy Director Freeman F. Martin has been selected to serve as the department's fourteenth Director. Martin is the first Texas Ranger to ascend to the position.

DPS Trooper Recognized at the North American Human Trafficking Conference

November 12, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) congratulates Trooper Kyle Bradley (Capitol) for earning the prestigious “Be the One” Award at this year’s North American Human Trafficking Conference in Las Vegas, Nev. The three-day conference took place Oct. 23-25, and brought together law enforcement, advocates, community leaders and experts in the field of human trafficking.

Increased Reward Offered in Teenager’s Cold Case Murder

November 8, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 1987 murder of Veronica Taylor. The reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for her death is now increased to $6,000 if the tip is received before the next featured Texas Rangers cold case is announced.

DPS Reminds Texans to Move Over or Slow Down, Eliminate Distractions While Driving (West Texas Region)

November 8, 2024

EL PASO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) along with several partner agencies issued nearly 100 violations as part of an enhanced enforcement operation focused on the state’s Move Over or Slow Down and distracted driving laws.

DPS Announces Multiple Arrests in Clean Scanning Operation

November 8, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Regulatory Services Division (RSD) continues to work to address illegal activity surrounding fraudulent vehicle inspections known as “clean scanning.” In its most recent enforcement operation, which was conducted in the Houston area this month, 19 warrants were secured for criminal activity related to clean scanning.

DPS Announces Featured Fugitive for November

November 7, 2024

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Miguel Gomez is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is now increased to $8,500 during November if the tip is received this month.

Crime Stoppers Tip Leads to Arrest of Drive-In Murder Suspect in Dallas

October 30, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Adiah Roberson is now back in custody following her arrest on Oct. 22. A Crime Stoppers tip led to her arrest, and a reward will be paid.

iWatchTexas Receives Record Number of School Safety Reports in September

October 29, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) iWatchTexas program received a record number of school safety related reports during the month of September – more than double previous years.

DPS Offers Halloween Safety Tips

October 28, 2024

AUSTIN – As Halloween approaches, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) would like to remind all Texans to prioritize safety while enjoying the festivities. Whether you are trick-or-treating, attending a Halloween event or traveling the roads, staying alert and taking precautions is essential.

Crime Stoppers Tip Leads to Capture of Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive in Jim Wells Co.

October 15, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces a Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive is back in custody following his recent arrest. Authorities arrested Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Luis Becerra on Oct. 5. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid.

DPS Seeks Public’s Help in 2018 Midland Co. Disappearance (West Texas Region)

October 15, 2024

MIDLAND – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 2018 disappearance of Caitlin Denison, 19, of Reno, NV., as there is renewed interest in the case based on new information gathered by the Texas Rangers. Investigators believe the public may have key information to help solve this case.

Public Safety Commission, State Lawmakers, Agency Leaders Honor DPS Director Steven McCraw

October 11, 2024

AUSTIN – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven C. McCraw was honored yesterday for his legacy of leadership and service at what was his last Public Safety Commission (PSC) meeting before his retirement later this year.

DPS Honors Heroic Actions and Bravery at October PSC Meeting

October 11, 2024

AUSTIN – Yesterday, the Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, recognized the service of several Texans at the PSC meeting at DPS Headquarters in Austin. PSC Commissioners and Director McCraw presented one Director’s citation, one Director’s Award, five Lifesaving Awards and one additional recognition.

DPS Releases CUP Report to Public Safety Commission, State Lawmakers

October 10, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has released a report on the sustainability and accessibility of Texas’ Compassionate Use Program (CUP) to members of the Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) along with state lawmakers.

DPS Captures Tren de Aragua Gang Member in Houston

October 8, 2024

AUSTIN – A confirmed Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang member is now in custody following his arrest on Monday, Oct. 7, by Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents in Houston.

Houston Murder Suspect Named October Featured Fugitive

October 7, 2024

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Ernest Nathan is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $6,000 for the month if the tip is received in October.

DPS’ Fitness Wellness Unit Receives National Officer Wellness Award

October 7, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is proud to announce its Fitness Wellness Unit (FWU) is the recipient of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund’s 2024 Officer Wellness Award. The FWU was selected for its robust efforts to increase the overall physical, mental and overall health of DPS personnel across the state.

DPS Apprehends Dozens of Illegal Immigrants from Special Interest Countries

October 4, 2024

AUSTIN – Over the last week, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers working Operation Lone Star – the state’s mission to secure our southern border and deter, detect and interdict criminal activity between ports of entry – have apprehended two large groups of illegal immigrants, many coming from countries of special interest, attempting to unlawfully enter the United States.

DPS Trooper Killed in the Line of Duty Honored in Hockley

October 3, 2024

AUSTIN – Today, hundreds gathered at Community of Faith Church in Hockley to pay their respects to Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol (THP) Trooper Kevin Alexis Ramirez Vasquez, who was tragically killed in the line of duty last month.

DPS Makes Multiple Arrests During Human Smuggling Traffic Stop in Hidalgo County (South Texas Region)

October 2, 2024

WESLACO – As part of Operation Lone Star, the Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Brush Team arrested multiple people—including a man wanted for homicide—following a vehicle pursuit involving human smugglers in Hidalgo County.

ICYMI: Vehicle Safety Inspection Changes Take Effect January 2025

October 2, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds Texans that changes to the state’s Vehicle Safety Inspection Program – which eliminate most vehicle safety inspections – begin on Jan. 1, 2025.

DPS Offers Saturday Driver License Appointments in October

October 2, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is now offering Saturday appointments at select driver license offices statewide through the end of October.

DPS Bolsters One Pill Kills Campaign During Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month

October 1, 2024

AUSTIN –Beginning today, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is increasing its One Pill Kills public awareness efforts as part of Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month

DPS Trooper Dies After Being Struck During Crash Investigation

September 29, 2024

AUSTIN – It is with great sadness the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the death of a Highway Patrol Trooper following a traffic crash in Ector County.

Texas Rangers Solve 40-Year-Old Ector County Cold Case Murder, Suspect Pleads Guilty

September 25, 2024

AUSTIN – The man who pled guilty to a decades-old cold case murder in Ector County will spend the next 20 years behind bars. Billy Wayne Ludwigson, 62, was arrested by the Texas Rangers after years of investigation. He pled guilty to the murder of 64-year-old Velma Nesset and was sentenced by an Ector County jury in August.

DPS Highlights iWatchTexas Program Ahead of “If You See Something, Say Something” Awareness Day

September 23, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding Texans this week of the iWatchTexas program—a critical resource the public can use to report suspicious activity or behavior in their schools and communities—ahead of National “If You See Something, Say Something” Awareness Day on Sept. 25.

DPS Offers Saturday Driver License Appointments in September

September 17, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is adding Saturday appointments at select driver license offices statewide through the end of September.

DPS Issues Reminders for Child Passenger Safety Week

September 16, 2024

AUSTIN – In recognition of Child Passenger Safety Week, which runs Sept. 15-20, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding drivers to educate themselves on the best child safety seat practices in order to keep our state’s youngest passengers safe on the road.

Drive-In Murder Suspect Added to Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List

September 12, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Adiah Namir Roberson to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List

DPS Highlights Crime Laboratory Division During National Forensic Science Week

September 10, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is proud to recognize the hardworking men and women of the Crime Laboratory Division during National Forensic Science Week, which takes place Sept. 15-21.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure in Carson County (Northwest Texas Region)

September 9, 2024

CARSON COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than 16 pounds of suspected cocaine and nearly two pounds of suspected fentanyl after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Carson County.

Public Safety Commission Forms Selection Committee, Begins Process to Name New DPS Director

September 6, 2024

AUSTIN – Today, the Public Safety Commission (PSC) formally created a selection committee to assist in the process of naming a new Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director. Members of the PSC, including Chairman Steven P. Mach, Nelda L. Blair, Dan Hord III, Larry Long and Steve Stodghill all took part in the meeting, which took place at DPS Headquarters in Austin.

DPS Announces Featured Fugitive for September

September 5, 2024

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Robert Gonzales is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 for the month if the tip is received in September.

DPS Discovers 17 Illegal Immigrants Crammed Inside Hidden Compartment in Cloned Delivery Truck (South Texas Region)

September 3, 2024

DEL RIO – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers working Operation Lone Star recently discovered 17 illegal immigrants being smuggled inside a hidden compartment in a cloned home improvement store delivery truck during a traffic stop in Kinney County.

Two of Texas’ Most Wanted Offenders Back in Custody

August 30, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces two Texas 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody. Authorities arrested Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Dewarren Knowles on Aug. 17 and Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Antioneo Sims on Aug. 27. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in Sims’ arrest.

DPS Offers Safety Tips Ahead of Labor Day Holiday

August 29, 2024

AUSTIN – As part of an effort to keep drivers safe this Labor Day weekend, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is increasing enforcement efforts, including Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE) Aug. 30 through Sept. 2, statewide.

DPS Announces Leadership Changes Effective Sept. 1

August 29, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) publicly announced several changes to key leadership positions across the department during the Public Safety Commission Meeting on Thursday, Aug. 22. The changes are a result of personnel retiring after many dedicated years of service or new positions being created throughout various divisions of the department.

DPS Aircraft Rescues Stranded Hikers in Guadalupe Mountains National Park

August 28, 2024

AUSTIN – Last week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Aircraft Operations Division (AOD) rescued a family of stranded hikers in Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Culberson County.

Criminal Illegal Immigrant on Most Wanted List Arrested in Houston

August 27, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has captured another fugitive from Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List in Houston – just days after he was added to the list.

DPS Recognizes Courageous Acts at August PSC Meeting

August 26, 2024

AUSTIN – The Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, recognized the service of several Texans at the PSC meeting at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Commissioners and Director McCraw presented one Medal of Valor, three Director’s Awards, five Lifesaving Awards and one Unit Citation.

DPS Welcomes 101 New Troopers to Texas Highway Patrol

August 23, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today commissioned 101 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from recruit Class A-2024 during a graduation ceremony at Great Hills Baptist Church in Austin. Texas Governor Greg Abbott gave the keynote address.

DPS Director Steven McCraw Announces Plans to Retire

August 23, 2024

AUSTIN – This morning, in a letter to his more than 11,000 Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers and employees, Director Steven C. McCraw announced that after leading the agency for 15 years, he plans to retire.

DPS Welcomes New Commissioner Hord, Thanks Outgoing Commissioner Wainwright for Service

August 22, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today officially welcomed a new member to the Public Safety Commission (PSC) as Commissioner Dan Hord sat for his first PSC meeting at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Commissioner Hord fills the seat previously held by outgoing Commissioner Dale Wainwright, who left the PSC earlier this year after completing his term.

Harris Co. Fugitive Added to Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Immigrants List

August 20, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Jose Miguel Zelaya-Ponce to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List. Texas Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for information leading to Zelaya-Ponce’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Highlights Critical Aircraft Operations on National Aviation Day

August 19, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), in honor of National Aviation Day today, recognizes the significant, decades-long contributions of the department’s Aircraft Operations Division (AOD) to citizens of the state.

DPS Announces Featured Fugitive for August

August 12, 2024

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrant Omar Zavala is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 for the month if the tip is received in August.

DPS Issues Safety Reminders Ahead of New School Year

August 5, 2024

AUSTIN – As students begin heading back to school, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds all Texans to exercise heightened caution and adhere to safety measures implemented to protect students, staff and fellow drivers this school year. This includes tips on how to safely drop off and pick up your child from school, drive cautiously through school zones and talk to your family and loved ones about staying safe this school year and beyond.

Criminal Illegal Immigrant on Most Wanted List Arrested in Round Rock

August 2, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has captured another fugitive from Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List – this time in Round Rock. A Crime Stoppers reward will not be paid in this arrest.

DPS Announces SafeDRIVE Enforcement

August 2, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Texas Highway Patrol (THP) is increasing enforcement efforts – along with fellow law enforcement partners in bordering states – as part of the Distracted Reckless Impaired Visibility Enforcement or SafeDRIVE initiative. This concentrated highway enforcement will run Aug. 6-8, 2024, on Interstates 10, 20, 35, 40 and 45.

DPS Responds to Fire Involving Radioactive Materials

July 29, 2024

AUSTIN – On Friday, July 19, around 7:45 p.m., members of the Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Radiation/Nuclear Detection Unit, along with the Upton County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Transportation and other local agencies, responded to the scene of a truck tractor semi-trailer on fire along State Highway 329 northwest of Rankin, Texas. The trailer was transporting UN3332—a radioactive material that contains Cesium-137 which can pose a serious health threat.

Boat Dedication Honors Legacy of Fallen DPS Trooper (DPS-Northwest Texas Region)

July 26, 2024

AMARILLO – Today, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) held a boat dedication ceremony at the Texas Panhandle War Memorial in Amarillo to honor the life and service of fallen Trooper Matthew Dewayne Myrick. Bearing the name Patrol Vessel Myrick, the newly commissioned boat will be transported to DPS’ Tactical Marine Unit stationed at the Texas-Mexico border.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure (Northwest Texas Region)

July 25, 2024

HARDEMAN COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized approximately 12 pounds of suspected fentanyl after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Hardeman County.

DPS Identifies Victim of Homicide (1984 Cold Case, Jack County)

July 24, 2024

Wizard Wells, TX – The Jack County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Rangers have identified the victim of a homicide that occurred near Wizard Wells, Texas, in 1984 as Roberta Mumma. Roberta Mumma’s skeletal remains were discovered in a remote area in Jack County over 35 years ago, and her identity remained a mystery until now.

DPS K-9 Tracks Down Fugitive After Miles-Long Manhunt in Frio County

July 23, 2024

AUSTIN – A Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) K-9 Tracking Team arrested a man wanted for murder after a miles-long manhunt in rural Frio County earlier this month. The suspect, Naudy Hernandez Perez, 25, had an active warrant for the fatal shooting of a man in Dallas County.

DPS Competes in 31st Annual Texas Challenge

July 18, 2024

AUSTIN – This week Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) Troopers traveled from across the state to Corpus Christi to compete in the 31st annual Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) Texas Challenge – demonstrating their ability to understand and enforce regulations on commercial vehicles.

New Fugitives Added to Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List

July 16, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two fugitives with ties to Central Texas, Fabian Martinez Toribio and Octavio Cruz Hernandez, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List. Texas Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of either fugitive.

DPS Officers Win National Safety Education Competition Awards

July 15, 2024

AUSTIN –Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) congratulates three of its Safety Education Service Sergeants on winning awards at the national Uniformed Safety Education Officers Workshop (USEOW) in Kansas City, Mo. last month. The five-day workshop and competition, which took place June 23-27, offers public safety education training to state police officers from across the country.

DPS Announces Featured Fugitive for July

July 12, 2024

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrant Jorge Hernandez is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 for the month if the tip is received in July.

DPS Opens Temporary Driver License Office in Brenham

July 11, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), in partnership with Blinn College, announces the opening of a temporary driver license (DL) office at the Blinn College Student Center in Brenham. Beginning Monday, July 15, Texans may visit this temporary office for full, in-person DL services. Members of the Texas Highway Patrol will also office at this location.

DPS Arrests Several Criminal Illegal Immigrants of Interest

July 3, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is announcing the capture of a dozen wanted criminal illegal immigrants of interest across the state – just some of the thousands of identified fugitives who have entered the United States illegally and committed crimes in Texas.

DPS Reminds Texans to Put Safety First During Fourth of July Holiday

July 3, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is stepping up enforcement efforts for the Fourth of July holiday to keep everyone safe on the roads, including Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE), which runs July 3-7.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Captured in Wyoming

July 2, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces a Texas 10 Most Wanted sex offender is back in custody following his recent arrest. Authorities arrested Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Ramiro Dominguez on June 27 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Dominguez was DPS’ Featured Fugitive in June 2024, and a Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in his arrest.

DPS Reminds Texans of Vehicle Safety Inspection Changes

July 1, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds Texans of upcoming changes to the state’s Vehicle Safety Inspection Program that will eliminate most vehicle safety inspections.

Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure in Wheeler County (Northwest Texas Region)

June 28, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than 12 pounds of suspected fentanyl Thursday after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Wheeler County.

DPS Offers Summer Safety Tips

June 24, 2024

As the heat continues across Texas, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) urges everyone to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from the dangers of extreme heat in order to have a safe, healthy summer.

DPS Announces New Texas Highway Patrol Assistant Chief

June 18, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the promotion of Bruce James to Assistant Chief of the Texas Highway Patrol (THP). This promotion is a result of the retirement of Assistant Chief Justin Chrane who served the department for nearly 30 years.

Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Now Back in Custody

June 14, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Authorities arrested Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Perci Newman on June 4 and Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Louis Keeton on June 6.

DPS Recognizes Outstanding Service at June PSC Meeting

June 14, 2024

No. 1 on Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List Arrested

June 13, 2024

AUSTIN – Just more than a week after Governor Greg Abbott launched Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has captured the No. 1 most wanted fugitive from that list.

DPS Reminds Texans to Plan Now for Hurricane Season

June 10, 2024

AUSTIN – In support of hurricane preparedness efforts across the state, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds Texans to make an emergency plan as hurricane season gets underway. The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season runs June 1 through November 30.

First Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrant Arrested

June 6, 2024

Just over 24 hours since Governor Greg Abbott launched Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is announcing the first arrest from that list.

Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure in Carson County (Northwest Texas Region)

June 6, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 31 pounds of suspected methamphetamine Wednesday after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Carson County.

DPS Announces Featured Fugitive for June

June 6, 2024

Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Ramiro Dominguez is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $3,000 for the month if the tip is received in June.

DPS Increases Memorial Day Traffic Enforcement

May 20, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is encouraging Texas motorists to heed driver safety tips and prepare for enhanced Memorial Day enforcement efforts, including the annual Click It or Ticket and Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE) campaigns, starting today, May 20, through Memorial Day, May 27.

DPS Dedicates Fallen Officers Memorial, Display in Austin

May 16, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today dedicated the new DPS Fallen Officers Memorial and display during the department’s annual Peace Officers Memorial Service in Austin.

DPS Congratulates Winners of Top Trooper Competition

May 8, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is proud to announce the winners of this year’s 12th annual Top Trooper Competition: Top male Trooper Trevor Topper (Archer City) and Top female Trooper Melanie Moreno (Alice).

DPS Arrests Teenage Human Smugglers, Apprehends Illegal Immigrant Wanted for Murder

May 7, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), as part of Operation Lone Star, arrested two teenage human smugglers transporting three illegal immigrants, including one wanted for murder, after a high-speed pursuit in Maverick County.

DPS Announces Featured Fugitive for May

May 6, 2024

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Marcos Christopher Alonzo is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 during May 2024 if the tip is received this month.

DPS Arrests 31 Illegal Immigrants in Maverick County

May 3, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) this morning arrested 31 illegal immigrants for criminal trespass in Maverick County as part of Operation Lone Star (OLS).

DPS’ Interdiction for the Protection of Children Program Marks 15th Anniversary

April 29, 2024

This month, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) recognizes the 15-year anniversary of its lifesaving Interdiction for the Protection of Children (IPC) program. Launched by DPS in April 2009, the IPC program trains front-line officers to recognize indicators that a child may be a victim, at-risk of victimization or missing and identify individuals who pose a high-risk threat to a child.

DPS Seizes $2 Million Worth of Cocaine During Hidalgo County Traffic Stop

April 19, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 98 kilos (216 pounds) of cocaine during an Operation Lone Star traffic stop in Hidalgo County. The cocaine seized has a street value of $2 million.

DPS Recognizes Heroic Actions at April PSC Meeting

April 16, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, recognized the heroic actions of several Texans at the Public Safety Commission meeting at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Commissioners and Director McCraw presented one Purple Heart, seven Lifesaving Awards and one Unit Citation to members of DPS.

DPS Recovers 23 Illegal Immigrants Smuggled Inside Flatbed Trailer

April 12, 2024

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today recovered 23 illegal immigrants concealed inside a flatbed trailer during an Operation Lone Star traffic stop in La Salle County.

Three from Texas Top 10 Most Wanted Lists Captured

April 10, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Authorities arrested Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Juan Huerta and Jesse Vega on March 26 and April 3, respectively. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Hayden Abel III was arrested on April 2, and a Texas Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in his arrest.

Emergency Declaration: 2024 Solar Eclipse

April 7, 2024

Pursuant to Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 390.23 and Chapter 644 of the Texas Transportation Code, Colonel Steven C. McCraw, Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, has declared a local emergency exists which justifies certain exemptions from Parts 390 through 399 of Title 49 (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations). Such emergency declaration is in response to the solar eclipse and related traffic and possible supply chain shortages in the State of Texas.

DPS Urges Texans, Visitors to Follow Safety Guidelines Ahead of Historic Solar Eclipse

April 5, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today urged Texans and those visiting the state to prepare accordingly and follow safety tips ahead of the historic total solar eclipse expected to impact dozens of communities next week.

DPS Arrests More Than 200 Illegal Immigrants for State Crimes in El Paso

April 3, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirms the arrests of 214 illegal immigrants on state rioting charges in connection with the March 21, 2024, incident near Gate 36 in El Paso.

Fugitive Sex Offenders from Houston, Odessa Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted List

March 27, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Braylon Lee Smart and Christopher Michael Anderson to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders list. Texas Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for information leading to each of their arrests.

DPS Arrests Six in Multi-Agency Lone Star Card Fraud Investigation

March 27, 2024

EL PASO – Earlier this week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) arrested six suspects in connection with a Lone Star Card fraud investigation in the El Paso area. Administered by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), Lone Star Cards are Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards used to access Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash help payments. From 2016 to the current date, 30 individuals have been arrested for Lone Star Card fraud.

Fugitives from San Antonio, Hutchins Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists

March 20, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Jesse Vega to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list and Marcos Alonzo to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders list. Texas Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to Vega’s arrest and a cash reward of up to $3,000 for information leading to Alonzo’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Announces Featured Fugitive for March

March 5, 2024

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Mack Kizzee III is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $6,000 during March if the tip is received this month.

DPS Announces Results from Human Trafficking Operations

March 4, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the results of several human trafficking mitigation and rescue operations conducted during January 2024, which is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. During that month alone, Special Agents from DPS’ Criminal Investigations Division (CID), along with local and federal partners, conducted 12 operations focused on human trafficking. These operations resulted in the rescue of 52 trafficking victims, including nine children.

DPS Honors Achievements and Bravery at February PSC Meeting

February 23, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, presented two William P. Clements Excellence Awards along with several Lifesaving Awards, a Director’s Award and one Unit Citation, at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Feb. 15, at the DPS Headquarters in Austin.

DPS Announces Leadership Promotions

February 22, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces several changes at key leadership positions within the department. The promotions are a result of the retirement of Lieutenant Colonel Dwight Mathis on Jan. 31, after more than three decades of dedicated service.

Fugitive from McAllen Named February’s Featured Fugitive

February 9, 2024

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Raul Herrera Jr. has been named this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $8,500 if the tip is received this month.

Two From Top 10 Most Wanted Lists Now Back in Custody

February 7, 2024

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Steven Leifeste was arrested Jan. 26. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Kenneth Dove Jr. was arrested Feb. 2. A Crime Stoppers reward will not be paid in either arrest.

DPS Arrests Over 50 in Regional Human Trafficking Operations (DPS West Texas Region)

February 2, 2024

WEST TEXAS REGION – During January 2024, as part of Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) conducted numerous operations throughout the West Texas Region.

Gang Member from Texarkana Added to Texas Most Wanted List, $5,000 Reward Offered

February 1, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Markeis Jamal Richardson of Texarkana, Texas, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Texas Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Launches Violent Offender Database

February 1, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is pleased to announce that the Violent Offender Database is now available. This new database launched on December 29, 2023 ― officially going live ahead of its required Jan. 1, 2024, deadline.

IPC Program Hits Milestone in Child Rescues

January 16, 2024

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol Troopers rescued their 600th child during traffic stops since the implementation of specialized training through the Interdiction for the Protection of Children (IPC) Program. The IPC Program began training Troopers in 2009.

Texas Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Captured in Mexico

January 12, 2024

AUSTIN – A Texas 10 Most Wanted offender is back in custody after their arrest on Dec. 11, 2023, in the State of Jalisco, Mexico. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in this arrest.

DNA Helps Convict Attacker Nearly Two Decades Later

January 8, 2024

AUSTIN – A nearly two-decades old cold case has been solved thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Texas Rangers and local law enforcement. Last month, the 35th Judicial District Court of Mills County convicted Jessie Rodriquez, 41, of attempted aggravated sexual assault, a second-degree felony. Rodriquez received the maximum 20-year prison sentence.

DPS Reminds Everyone to Make Safety a Priority this Holiday Season

December 21, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) encourages everyone to put safety at the top of their list this holiday season. The Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will conduct its annual Christmas and New Year’s holiday traffic enforcement campaign beginning Dec. 22 and running through the rest of the year. Troopers will be out on the roads looking for people who are speeding, not wearing their seat belts, driving while intoxicated or committing other traffic violations.

DPS Announces New Division Chiefs in THP and IOD

December 20, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is pleased to announce Bryan Rippee as the new Chief of the Texas Highway Patrol (THP), and Jason Hester as the new Chief of the Infrastructure Operations Division (IOD).

Three From Top 10 Most Wanted Lists Now Back in Custody

December 12, 2023

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Chad King was arrested Nov. 29. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders Brandon Luera was arrested Nov. 27 and Lonnie Brown was arrested Dec. 5. Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid in the captures of King and Luera.

DPS Graduates 79 Recruits from Final Academy of 2023

December 11, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) commissioned 79 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from recruit class C-2023 during a graduation ceremony on Friday, Dec. 8, which was held at Great Hills Baptist Church in Austin. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick gave the keynote address.

DPS Presents Awards at Final PSC Meeting of the Year

December 11, 2023

AUSTIN – On Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023, the Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, presented several prestigious awards to DPS personnel, including five Director’s Citations, one Lifesaving Award and a Unit Citation. The Awards were presented at the PSC meeting at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Four Director’s Awards were also given to people outside the department.

DPS' OIG Releases Executive Summary of Investigation Related to OLS

December 7, 2023

DPS’ Office of Inspector General has completed its investigation regarding concerns related to Operation Lone Star, specifically to Shelby Park in Eagle Pass. The investigation over a roughly three-month period included interviews with over 51 individuals, reviewing over 180 gigabits of body worn camera, reports, emails, messages, etc.

El Paso Sex Offender Named December’s Featured Fugitive

December 5, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Kenneth Wayne Dove Jr., is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $6,000 for the next month if the tip is received in December.

DPS Prepares to Implement CDL Skills Test Modernization Initiative

November 30, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is preparing to implement the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) commercial driver license (CDL) Skills Test Modernization initiative after the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recently announced its approval. AAMVA has already prepared the process changes and training guides for states to implement the initiative.

Texas Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Captured in Southern California

November 28, 2023

AUSTIN – A Texas 10 Most Wanted offender is back in custody after their arrest on Nov. 15, in San Bernardino, Calif. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in this arrest.

DPS Welcomes 94 New Troopers to Texas Highway Patrol

November 17, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) commissioned 94 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from recruit class B-2023 during a graduation ceremony on Friday, Nov. 17, which was held at Great Hills Baptist Church in Austin. The department was honored to have Governor Greg Abbott serve as the keynote speaker.

Two Top 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders Back in Custody

November 16, 2023

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders are back in custody following their arrests on November 9. A Crime Stoppers reward will not be paid in either capture.

Fugitive Wanted for Double Homicide in Upshur County Added to Texas Most Wanted List

November 14, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Alvin Charles McKnight Jr., of Gilmer, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Texas Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to his arrest, and Upshur County Crime Stoppers is offering up to $10,000 in reward money for any anonymous tip that leads to McKnight’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Operation Lone Star Seizes Weapons from Human Smuggling Ring (DPS West Texas Region)

November 11, 2023

El Paso – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents from the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) assigned to Operation Lone Star have seized weapons, body armor and ammunition from a human smuggling ring believed to have ties to cartel.

In Case You Missed It: DPS Graduates Seven K-9 Teams

November 7, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) recently graduated seven new K-9 teams from the Texas Highway Patrol’s Canine Program. A total of four tracking handlers and three drug detection handlers, along with their canines, graduated at a ceremony, which was held on Friday, Oct. 27, at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Of special note, this was the first tracking handler class taught solely by DPS.

DPS Names Assistant Chief in Crime Laboratory Division

November 3, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is pleased to announce that Alice Amilhat has promoted to the newly created position of Assistant Chief of the Crime Laboratory Division. In this new role as Assistant Chief, she will have a hand in planning, directing and coordinating forensic laboratory services across the state.

DPS, FBI and Local Agencies Partner for Mass Casualty Training Exercise

November 1, 2023

AUSTIN – On Oct. 26 and 27, 2023, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) joined with federal, state and local partners for the 2023 Texas Statewide Complex Coordinated Terrorist Attack (CCTA) Full-Scale Exercise.

El Paso Fugitive Named November’s Featured Fugitive

November 1, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Chad Everett King is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $6,000 during November if the tip is received this month.

DPS Presents Purple Hearts, Medal of Valor and Other Prestigious Awards at October PSC Meeting

October 30, 2023

AUSTIN – On Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, the Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, presented several prestigious awards to DPS personnel, including a Medal of Valor, two Purple Hearts, five Director’s Citations, nine Lifesaving Awards and two Unit Citations. The Awards were presented at the Public Safety Commission meeting at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Four Director’s Awards were also given to law enforcement personnel outside the department.

DPS Partners with Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to Offer New IPC Program

October 18, 2023

AUSTIN – On Sept. 25-29, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) again partnered with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to offer a five-day Interdiction for the Protection of Children (IPC) Train the Trainer Course. IPC is a crimes against children class that includes human trafficking. IPC trains front-line officers to recognize indicators that a child may be a victim, at risk of victimization or missing, as well as recognizing high-risk threats to children.

Fugitive from McAllen Added to Texas Most Wanted List

October 18, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Raul Herrera Jr., of McAllen, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List, and Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to his arrest. Remember, all tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Reminds Texans About Dangers of Fentanyl During Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month

October 11, 2023

AUSTIN – This October marks the first ever Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month in Texas as established by Governor Greg Abbott earlier this year. In order to help the state continue its fight against this dangerous and deadly drug, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is increasing its public awareness campaign and reminding Texans to take action now in order to help save lives.

DPS Urges Texans to Report Suspicious Activity After Recent Attacks Against Israel

October 10, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is responding to Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s directive this week to work with local partners and federal intelligence agencies on heightened public safety measures in light of the recent attacks against Israel.

Three Offenders from Top 10 Most Wanted Lists Arrested

October 5, 2023

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Joshua Lockett was arrested September 29. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders Clayton Starr and Daniel Buruato were both arrested September 27. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid to a tipster who assisted in Lockett’s capture.

Sex Offender from Houston Named October’s Featured Fugitive

October 4, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Timothy Wayne Kirksey is October’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest has been increased to $4,000 if the tip is received in October.

DPS Highlights Achievements During National Forensic Science Week

September 15, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is proud to recognize the hardworking men and women of the DPS Crime Laboratory Division during National Forensic Science Week, which takes place from Sept. 17-23. The week highlights the critical forensic science work taking place in labs across the country, including the 16 accredited DPS crime labs that serve the state of Texas.

DPS Names First Female Texas Ranger Major in History

September 12, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the promotion of Texas Ranger Captain Wende O. Wakeman to the rank of major, making her the first female Ranger major in the organization’s storied two-hundred-year history.

Driver License System Now Available; Offices to Reopen on Monday

September 8, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Driver License (DL) Offices will reopen for regular business hours statewide on Monday, Sept. 11, 2023, following the closure caused by the driver license system upgrade. Online services will also be available.

UPDATE: Appointments Cancelled at Most Driver License Offices on Friday Until 2 P.M.

September 8, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is now cancelling driver license appointments for Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, until 2 p.m. at many driver license offices statewide due to the ongoing upgrade of the driver license system. The only offices that will remain open for appointments at this time are the Garland Mega Center, Fort Worth Mega Center and Carrollton Mega Center.

Appointments Cancelled at Most Driver License Offices on Friday Until 11 A.M.

September 7, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is cancelling driver license appointments for Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, from 7:30 to 11 a.m. at many driver license offices statewide due to the ongoing upgrade of the driver license system. The only offices that will open with regular business hours on Friday are the Garland Mega Center, Fort Worth Mega Center and Carrollton Mega Center.

Wednesday Appointments Now Cancelled at Driver License Offices Statewide

September 6, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is cancelling all driver license appointments for Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, due to the ongoing upgrade of the driver license system. The upgrade is impacting all driver license services including renewing or replacing a driver license or identification card, obtaining a driver record and verifying eligibility.

Wednesday Morning Appointments Cancelled at Driver License Offices Statewide

September 5, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is cancelling all driver license appointments for the morning of Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, between 7:30 and noon due to the ongoing upgrade of the driver license system. The upgrade is impacting all driver license services including renewing or replacing a driver license or identification card, obtaining a driver record and verifying eligibility.

San Antonio Fugitive Named September’s Featured Fugitive

September 5, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Steven Leifeste is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $6,000 for the month if the tip is received in September.

DPS Announces Retirements and Promotions at Key Leadership Positions

August 31, 2023

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the retirement of Lieutenant Colonel Jeoff Williams, North Texas Regional Director Hank Sibley and Aircraft Operations Division Chief Pilot Tim Ochsner.

DPS Increases Enforcement for Labor Day Holiday

August 31, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is increasing enforcement for the Labor Day holiday and encouraging everyone to drive safely.

Driver License Offices Closed Statewide on Friday

August 31, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Division will be updating the driver license system over the upcoming Labor Day weekend.

DPS Awards Dedication to Mission and Service at August PSC Meeting

August 29, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, presented one Director’s Citation, two Lifesaving Awards and two Unit Citations at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Aug. 24, at DPS Headquarters in Austin.

DPS Graduates 172nd Recruit Class

August 29, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) commissioned 86 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from recruit class A-2023 during a graduation ceremony on Friday, Aug. 25.

Vehicle Inspection System Now Fully Operational

August 28, 2023

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Vehicle Inspection System is now fully operational after an outage due to a hardware failure late last wee

DPS Experiencing Vehicle Inspection System Outage

August 24, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is currently experiencing issues with the vehicle inspection system. The outage began on Aug. 23 and is ongoing.

DPS Rescues Child from Suspected Stash House (West Texas Region)

August 23, 2023

EL PASO - Earlier this month, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Special Agents along with Texas Highway Patrol Troopers and the El Paso and New Mexico United States Border Patrol Anti-Smuggling Units discovered a suspected stash house on the west side of El Paso, and a 13-year-old child locked in one of the bedrooms. Once agents entered the house, they observed a make-shift door with a lock in the main hallway and found each room door also had coded locks. Further investigation determined the house was being utilized for sex trafficking and the trafficking of drugs, including fentanyl and methamphetamine.

Austin Fugitive Added to Texas Most Wanted List

August 23, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Arthur Dewayne Carson, of Austin, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List and Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Announces Arrests in Clean Scanning Operation

August 18, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Regulatory Services Division (RSD) continues to work to address illegal activity surrounding fraudulent vehicle inspections known as “clean scanning.”

Collin County Fugitive Added to Texas Most Wanted List

August 14, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Joshua Darnell Lockett, of McKinney, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his arrest. Remember, all tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Issues Reminders for Drivers, Offers Resources Ahead of New School Year

August 11, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds drivers to use extra caution in-and-around school zones and neighborhoods as we approach the new school year. This includes knowing state laws about driving near stopped school buses and not using cell phones when you’re behind the wheel. It also means utilizing the many resources available to parents, school staff and students.

Top 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Captured in Fort Worth

August 10, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Larry Capko is back in custody following his arrest on August 4, in Fort Worth. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid.

DPS Announces August Featured Fugitive from Houston

August 3, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Johnny Wilson is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 during August if the tip is received this month.

Parker County Sex Offender Named July’s Featured Fugitive

July 5, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Larry Capko, who is also affiliated with the Aryan Brotherhood of Texas, is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 if the tip is received during the month of July.

DPS Increases Enforcement for July Fourth Holiday

July 3, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Texas Highway Patrol is stepping up enforcement efforts this July Fourth holiday aiming to keep people safe as they celebrate America’s Independence Day.

New Law Makes Changes to AMBER Alert System

June 30, 2023

AUSTIN – Newly signed legislation is making changes to the existing AMBER Alert system to allow local area activation under certain conditions. Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed HB 3556 into law on June 13, 2023, and the law immediately took effect.

Three From Top 10 Most Wanted Lists Now Back in Custody

June 29, 2023

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Juan Sauseda was arrested in Houston on June 28. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Shawn Mueller was arrested in Houston on June 28 and Victor Gaeta was arrested June 24 in Anthony. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in Gaeta’s capture.

Fugitive from Dallas Added to Texas Most Wanted List

June 23, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Leonard Lamar Neal, of Dallas, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List and $10,000 in reward money is being offered for information that leads to his arrest. Both Texas Crime Stoppers and North Texas Crime Stoppers are each offering cash rewards of up to $5,000 for information leading to Neal’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Fugitive from El Paso Added to Texas Most Wanted List

June 22, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Victor Manuel Gaeta, of El Paso, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List and Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Texas License To Carry Handgun Cards Now Issued With 2D Barcode

June 16, 2023

The Texas License To Carry Handgun (LTC) card will now be issued with a newly featured 2D barcode on the reverse side of the card.

DPS Honors Excellence, Service and Lifesaving Actions at June PSC Meeting

June 8, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, presented two Javier Arana Top Trooper Awards, two Adolph Thomas Distinguished Service Awards and three Lifesaving Awards at the PSC meeting on Thursday, June 8, at DPS Headquarters in Austin.

Fugitive from Austin Named June’s Featured Fugitive

June 8, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Dante Thompson has been named this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 for the month if the tip is received in June.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Captured in Lubbock, Dallas and Killeen

June 2, 2023

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted are back in custody following their arrests last month. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender David Thomas was arrested May 17. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Nehemiah Hicks was arrested May 22, and Kentrell Fletcher was arrested May 25. A Crime Stoppers reward was paid in Thomas’ arrest.

Fugitive from San Antonio Added to Texas Most Wanted List

May 25, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Steven Clay Leifeste, of San Antonio, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List and Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Marijuana Seizure

May 24, 2023

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 100 pounds of marijuana Saturday, Dec. 14, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County. At approximately 4:15 p.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a 2020 Jeep traveling east on I-40 near Vega, for a traffic violation. An Oldh

DPS Honors Fallen Officers at Peace Officers Memorial Service

May 23, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) remembered those lost in the line of duty throughout the department’s history at the 2023 Peace Officers Memorial Service today. The service was held at DPS Headquarters in Austin, with Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick serving as guest speaker.

DPS Reminds Drivers to Buckle Up, Drive Safely as Increased Enforcement Begins

May 22, 2023

AUSTIN – Memorial Day is just days away and that means kids are getting out of school, the days are getting longer and more people are hitting the road. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is taking this time to also remind drivers to celebrate this unofficial kickoff to summer safely so that everyone can enjoy their holiday.

DPS Launches Vehicle Safety Awareness Campaign

May 16, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today announced the launch of a social media vehicle safety awareness campaign. The new DID YOU KNOW? Vehicle Safety Spotlight series will focus on sharing vital vehicle safety tips, along with information about the corresponding and applicable laws, with DPS’ social media following.

Become a Texas State Trooper.

May 12, 2023

Integrity. Excellence. Accountability. Teamwork. Every day, DPS Troopers go to work committed to their mission to protect and serve their communities and our state.

Texas Top 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Captured in Lubbock

May 5, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Stacey Allen, of Sierra Blanca, is back in custody following his arrest on April 26, in Lubbock. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid.

DPS Honors Decisive Action, Excellence and Innovation at April PSC Meeting

April 21, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, presented two William P. Clements Excellence Awards, four Lifesaving Awards and two Unit Citations at the PSC meeting on Friday, April 21, at DPS Headquarters in Austin.

Texas Rangers Make Arrest in 42-Year-Old Cold Case Killing

April 20, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Rangers have made an arrest in a 42-year-old cold case. On April 13, 2023, the Rangers arrested 68-year-old Larry Allen West for the murder of 18-year-old Carol Joyce Deleon. He was taken into custody at his residence in San Antonio. West was linked to the killing through new evidence in the case that was subjected to Advanced DNA testing under the Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) program which is funded by the Department of Justice/ Bureau of Justice Assistance (DOJ/BJA).

Senate Confirms Public Safety Commission Chairman

April 5, 2023

AUSTIN – Today the state senate reconfirmed Chairman Steven P. Mach to the Public Safety Commission (PSC).

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Captured in Mabank, Midland and Tyler

April 5, 2023

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their arrests last month. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Santos Ramirez was arrested March 16, Eduardo Castrillo was arrested March 28, and Derwin Arline was arrested March 30. A Crime Stoppers reward was paid in Ramirez’s arrest.

DPS’ Operation Cinderblock Cracks Down on Fraudulent Vehicle Inspections

March 30, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is cracking down on fraudulent vehicle inspections and inspectors through an operation it launched in August 2022 called “Operation Cinderblock”. This regulatory and criminal operation focuses on vehicle inspection stations and inspectors who were potentially “clean scanning” vehicles instead of conducting the required emissions test during the inspection process.

Fugitive from Edinburg Added to Texas Most Wanted List

March 22, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Cesar Soto-Bolanos, of Edinburg, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for information leading to his arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Senate Confirms Larry Long as Member of Public Safety Commission

March 15, 2023

AUSTIN – Today, the Texas Senate confirmed Larry Long as the fifth member of the Public Safety Commission (PSC). The confirmation follows Long’s appointment by Texas Governor Greg Abbott last month. His term will expire on Jan. 1, 2028.

DPS Offers Safety Reminders for Spring Break

March 13, 2023

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding everyone of some simple tips to help keep all Texans safe this spring break. Now through March 19, the Texas Highway Patrol is increasing its presence on the roads as part of a spring break and St. Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign. Troopers will be out looking for people who are violating traffic laws as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort).

DPS Urges Texans to Avoid Spring Break Travel to Mexico

March 10, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging Texans to avoid traveling to Mexico during spring break, and beyond, due to the ongoing violence throughout that country.

Odessa Sex Offender Named Featured Fugitive for March

March 6, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Salomon Marquez is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 during the month of March if the tip is received this month.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Captured in North Texas

February 22, 2023

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Marlon Washington was arrested February 8. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Jerry Neiss was arrested February 13. No Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in either arrest.

DPS Presents Three Lifesaving Awards, One Medal of Merit at February PSC Meeting

February 16, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw presented three Lifesaving Awards and a Medal of Merit at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Feb. 16, at DPS Headquarters in Austin.

DPS Reminds Everyone to Make Safety Their Priority on Game Day

February 10, 2023

AUSTIN – Super Bowl LVII features the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles, but everyone can be a MVP by making safety their number one game plan on Super Bowl Sunday. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds football fans, and anyone out on the roads, to please drive responsibly.

Fort Worth Sex Offender Named February’s Featured Fugitive

February 3, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender John Ashley has been named this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $3,000 if the tip is received this month.

Denton County Fugitive Added to Texas Most Wanted List

January 26, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Zaed Rashid to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to Rashid’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Program Doubles Previous Record Number of Captures in 2022

January 25, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is pleased to announce that in 2022, it had the highest number of Most Wanted Offenders captured in a single year since the program’s inception in 1993. Last year DPS, in cooperation with state, federal, local, and Mexican authorities,* captured a record 72 fugitives and sex offenders. That is more than double the previous record set the year prior.

DPS Highlights Major Achievements for IPC Program in 2022

January 25, 2023

AUSTIN – 2022 was a tremendous year for the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Interdiction for the Protection of Children (IPC) program. IPC is a human trafficking and crimes against children program that trains front-line officers to recognize indicators that a child may be a victim, at risk of victimization or missing.

DPS Encourages Vigilance During National Human Trafficking Prevention Month

January 17, 2023

AUSTIN – Human trafficking - the use of force, fraud or coercion in any type of labor exploitation or commercial sex act, or when an individual under the age of 18 is involved in commercial sex - can happen to anyone, anywhere. It occurs in every state, every day and often goes unnoticed by those in the community. To draw attention to those victims, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding Texans to be vigilant as we mark National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

DPS Compassionate Use Program Now Taking Applications for Dispensing Organization Licenses

January 16, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Regulatory Services Division (RSD), is now accepting new applications for Compassionate Use Program (CUP) dispensing organization licenses.

Fugitive from San Jacinto County Named January’s Featured Fugitive

January 5, 2023

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Sergio Corona has been named this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 in January if the tip is received this month.

Fugitives from Rio Grande Valley, West Texas and Northeast Texas Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted List

January 3, 2023

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Rogelio Salinas, Salomon Marquez and Shacory Pryor to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List, and Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for information leading to each of their arrests. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Captured in New Mexico and San Antonio

December 22, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Juan Favela was arrested in Anthony, New Mexico, and Izeal Sullivan was arrested in San Antonio. No Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid.

DPS Encourages Everyone to be Safe and Aware this Holiday Season

December 20, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is encouraging everyone to end 2022 safely as they travel and spend time with family and friends this holiday season. The Texas Highway Patrol will conduct its annual Christmas and New Year’s holiday traffic enforcement campaign beginning Dec. 23 and will be out on the roads looking for people who are speeding, not wearing their seat belts, driving while intoxicated or committing other traffic violations.

DPS Honors More Than a Dozen with Awards at Final PSC Meeting of the Year

December 15, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw presented eight Lifesaving Awards, two Director’s Awards and a Unit Citation at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Dec. 15, at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Two criminal intelligence analysts were also recognized for their tremendous work.

Notice: DPS Participation in Texas Law Enforcement Support Office (LESO) Program

December 13, 2022

Several divisions of the Texas Department of Public Safety, including the Executive Protection Bureau, Aircraft Operations, Training Operations and Texas Highway Patrol Divisions, participate in the Texas Law Enforcement Support Office (LESO) Program.

DPS Begins Enhanced Commercial Vehicle Safety Inspections at Ports of Entry Along Texas Border

December 13, 2022

AUSTIN – On Tuesday, December 13, 2022, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) began conducting enhanced commercial vehicle safety inspections at random as they cross international ports of entry (POEs) into Texas.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Captured in Houston, Edinburg and Austin

December 5, 2022

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Patrick Carrier was arrested in Houston. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Eduardo Fuentes was arrested in Edinburg, and Jaquille Chefney was arrested in Austin. No Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid.

Escaped Inmate from Coryell County Named December’s Featured Fugitive

December 1, 2022

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Brandon Wayne Hogan is December’s Featured Fugitive. His reward is increased to $6,000 for this month if information leading to his arrest is received from tips.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Captured in California, Dallas and San Antonio

November 22, 2022

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Julian Murillo was arrested November 15, in California. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders Catarino Chavez III was arrested on November 17, in Dallas, and Daniel Munoz was arrested also on November 17, in San Antonio. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in Murillo’s capture.

DPS Increases Traffic Enforcement for Thanksgiving Holiday

November 21, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is stepping up enforcement for the Thanksgiving holiday to ensure people are able to get to and from their celebrations safely. Texas Highway Patrol Troopers will increase enforcement on the roads from Wednesday, Nov. 23, through Sunday, Nov. 27. DPS Troopers will be looking for people not wearing seat belts, driving while intoxicated, speeding and failing to follow the Move Over, Slow Down law, among other traffic violations.

DPS Welcomes Newly Commissioned Troopers

November 18, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) commissioned 76 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from recruit class B-2022 during a graduation ceremony on Friday, November 18. The keynote speaker at the graduation was Russell S. Molina, the Director of the Texas Ranger Bicentennial.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Arrested in Mexico

November 15, 2022

Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico on Nov. 9. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in Hernandez’s capture.

DPS Compassionate Use Program Working Group Now Taking Applications

November 10, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Regulatory Services Division (RSD), is now accepting applications to join the newly created Compassionate Use Program Working Group.

DPS to Host Advanced Peace Officer Recruiting and Testing Events in Austin

November 8, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will host Advanced Peace Officer Recruiting and Testing Events this Saturday and Sunday, November 12-13, in Austin, Texas. Current peace officers, as well as individuals looking to start a career in law enforcement, are invited to attend.

DPS Launches Campaign to Fight Fentanyl

November 4, 2022

AUSTIN – This month, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) answered Governor Greg Abbott’s call to action for state agencies by launching a new public awareness campaign to highlight the dangers of fentanyl. The multi-pronged campaign includes posting informational signage in DPS buildings, public service announcements at driver license offices statewide and publishing a webpage offering valuable resources.

Fugitive from Midland Named November’s Featured Fugitive

November 3, 2022

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Antonio Gonzalez has been named November’s Featured Fugitive. The reward is increased this month to $8,500 if information leading to his arrest is received from tips.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Captured in Austin and San Antonio

November 1, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Kim Cooks, of Austin, was arrested October 26, in Austin. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Chris Slack, of San Antonio, was also arrested October 26, in Von Ormy, Texas. No Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid.

Escaped Inmate from Coryell County Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List

October 14, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added prison escapee Brandon Wayne Hogan to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive’s List and is asking citizens to be on the lookout. Hogan is wanted for escape. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives Captured in Louisiana and Iowa

October 12, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted fugitives are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Braeion Henderson was arrested September 30, in New Orleans, Lou., and Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Paul Basaldua was arrested October 6, in Council Bluffs, Iowa. No Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid.

East Texas Fugitives Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists

October 5, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two fugitives to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists. Matthew Edgar is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List, and Sergio Corona is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to Edgar’s arrest, and up to $3,000 for information leading to Corona’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Fugitive from Dallas Named October Featured Fugitive

October 4, 2022

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Erick Martinez has been named this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward amount is increased to $8,500 if information leading to his arrest is received from tips in October.

La Aplicación iWatchTexas Ya Está Disponible en Español (iWatchTexas App Now Available in Spanish)

September 30, 2022

AUSTIN – Con el regreso a las escuelas en el estado de la estrella solitaria y la llegada del otoño, el Departamento de Seguridad Pública (DPS) se enorgullece en de presentar la aplicación iWatchTexas, ahora disponible en español, para usuarios de iOS y Android.

Joint Operation Stops Human Smuggling Attempt, Leads to Arrest of Previously Deported Felon (DPS South Texas Region)

September 29, 2022

WESLACO – In a joint operation with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) disrupted a human smuggling attempt by plane in Weslaco, Texas.

DPS Arrests Man After Attempt to Seize Soldier’s Weapon

September 28, 2022

WESLACO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) recently arrested a suspected illegal immigrant who attempted to take a weapon away from a Texas National Guard soldier serving as part of Operation Lone Star.

DPS, FBI and USBP Recovers Child From Kidnapping Scheme

September 27, 2022

EL PASO - On Sept. 26, 2022, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Special Agents, with assistance from Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, the United States Border Patrol (USBP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrested Jenna Roark, 45, of El Paso, and a 15-year-old juvenile on charges of smuggling of persons and aggravated kidnapping.

Texas Rangers Bring Family Justice in 1988 Cold Case Murder

September 23, 2022

AUSTIN – More than 30 years after the crime, the Texas Rangers Unsolved Crimes Investigation Program (UCIP) has helped secure a conviction in the 1988 killing of Patricia Ann Howell Jacobs.

DPS Partners with Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to Offer IPC Program

September 23, 2022

AUSTIN – On Sept. 21 and 22, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) partnered with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to offer a two-day Interdiction for the Protection of Children (IPC) program. IPC is a human trafficking and crimes against children class that trains front-line officers to recognize indicators that a child may be a victim, at risk of victimization or missing.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives from San Antonio, Freestone County and Wharton Captured

September 20, 2022

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Raynaldo Tijerina, of San Antonio, was arrested September 6, in Fort Stockton. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders Steven Powers, of Teague, was also arrested September 6, in Atlanta, Ga., and Columbus Johnson, of Wharton, was arrested September 8, in Rosenburg.

DPS Reminds Drivers to Put Safety First During Child Passenger Safety Week

September 19, 2022

AUSTIN – Child Passenger Safety Week is Sept. 18-24, and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding drivers to make sure your young passengers are secured properly in order to save lives.

Celebrate Forensic Science Week with DPS

September 19, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is proud to recognize the hardworking men and women of the DPS Crime Laboratory Division during National Forensic Science Week, which takes place from Sept. 18-24. The week aims to highlight the critical forensic science work taking place in labs across the country, including the 16 DPS crime labs that serve the state of Texas criminal justice system.

Fugitives from Midland and Fort Worth Added to Texas Most Wanted Lists

September 12, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two fugitives to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists. Antonio Gonzalez, of Midland, is now on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List, and John Ashley, of Fort Worth, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to Gonzalez’s arrest and up to $2,000 for information leading to Ashley’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Two Most Wanted Fugitives from Austin Area Captured

September 6, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender William Bird, of Austin, was arrested August 24, in Austin. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Nathan Bingham, of Hutto, was arrested August 30, in Hutto. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in Bird’s arrest.

Dallas Sex Offender Named Featured Fugitive for September

September 2, 2022

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Cecil Colby Smith has been named September’s Featured Fugitive. The reward is increased to $4,000 this month if information leading to his arrest is received from tips.

DPS Offers Safety Tips Ahead of Labor Day Holiday

September 1, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) encourages everyone to drive safely as they celebrate the unofficial end of summer over the Labor Day weekend. In an effort to reduce crashes, the Texas Highway Patrol will be increasing enforcement from Sept. 2 through Sept. 5, looking for people not wearing their seat belts, speeders, people driving while intoxicated and drivers who fail to follow the state’s Move Over, Slow Down law, among other traffic violations.

DPS Graduates 45 New Texas Highway Patrol Troopers

August 30, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) commissioned 45 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from recruit class A-2022 during a graduation ceremony on Friday, August 26. The department was honored to have Texas Governor Greg Abbott give the keynote address.

DPS Announces Two Retirements and Two Promotions at Leadership Positions

August 29, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the retirement of Central Texas Regional Director Todd Snyder and Texas Ranger Assistant Chief Brian Burzynski. These two retirements created vacancies which are being filled through promotions. These promotions were approved by the Public Safety Commission during its meeting on Thursday, Aug. 25. This includes current Criminal Investigations Division Major Vincent T. Luciano II promoting to Regional Director for the Central Texas Region in San Antonio, and Texas Ranger Major Corey Lain promoting to Assistant Chief of the Texas Rangers Division.

DPS Honors Tremendous Achievements at August PSC Meeting

August 25, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw presented two Adolph Thomas Distinguished Service Awards, four Lifesaving Awards and a Unit Citation to department personnel at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Aug. 25, at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Two Director’s Awards were presented to partner agency members at the meeting and additional department personnel were recognized for awards recently received from outside the agency.

Fugitives from Dallas, Austin Added to Texas Most Wanted Lists

August 23, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two men to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists. Erick Martinez, of Dallas, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. William Eugene Bird, of Austin, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to Martinez’s arrest and up to $3,000 for information leading to Bird’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives from Waco, Houston and El Paso Captured

August 18, 2022

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Rodney Hunter, of Waco, was arrested August 9 in Waco. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Thomas Naranjo, of Houston, was arrested August 10 in Houston. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Bruce Clifton, of El Paso, was arrested August 15 in Mesilla Park, N.M. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in Clifton’s arrest.

DPS Conducts Joint Operation to Suppress Crime (West Texas Region)

August 15, 2022

EL PASO – On August 9-11, 2022, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol (THP) and Criminal Investigations Division (CID) in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), and El Paso Police Department (EPPD) conducted a surge operation focusing on crime suppression in El Paso. The joint operation involved the arrests of wanted fugitives, drug offenders, human smugglers and those operating stash houses. Investigations also led to the apprehension of numerous undocumented non-citizens.

DPS Offers Tips and Resources Ahead of New School Year

August 12, 2022

AUSTIN – As the new school year nears, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds drivers to use extra caution in and around school zones and neighborhoods. This includes knowing the Texas laws about driving near stopped school buses and not using cell phones when you’re behind the wheel. It also means utilizing the many safety resources available to parents, school staff and students.

Sex Offender from Pharr Named August Featured Fugitive

August 4, 2022

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Humberto Carreon Acosta is the Featured Fugitive for the month of August. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $4,000 this month if it comes from tips.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives from Greenville, Abilene and Fort Worth Captured

August 3, 2022

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Cameron Bishop, of Greenville, was arrested July 14 in Commerce. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive John Havener, of Abilene, was arrested July 24 in Durant, Okl. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Arthur Stevenson, of Fort Worth, was arrested July 27 in Fort Worth. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in Bishop’s arrest.

Convicted Killer in Texas Ranger Cold Case Gets Two Life Sentences

July 28, 2022

AUSTIN – On July 25, 2022, capital murder suspect José Baldomero Flores III pled guilty in a Bexar County courtroom in the killings of two women, Heather Willms and Esmeralda Herrera. Flores, 41, was sentenced to two life sentences to run consecutively and one charge of arson. The sentencing closes a Texas Ranger Unsolved Crimes Investigation Program (UCIP) case nearly two decades old.

Fugitives from Lubbock, Dallas Added to Texas Most Wanted Lists

July 26, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two fugitives to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists. Tanner Cole Lermon, of Lubbock, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Blaine Brandon McReynolds, of Dallas, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to each of their arrests. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Graduates Six K-9 Teams from New Program

July 25, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) graduated six new K-9 teams earlier this month, as the inaugural class for the Texas Highway Patrol Canine Tracking Operations Program. These teams will be strategically located in the border regions to track individuals who may otherwise not be found.

Reward Increased in 2002 Slaying of Orange County Girl

July 22, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 2002 slaying of Dannarriah Finley, 4, of Orange. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible if the tip is received before the next featured cold case is announced. A $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest is routinely offered on all cases on the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website.

Texas Rangers Make Arrest in Double Homicide from 2005

July 21, 2022

AUSTIN – On July 8, 2022, Shelley Susan Thompson-Lemoine, 41, of Freeport, was arrested at the parole office in Angleton by the Texas Rangers and detectives from the Cleveland Police Department. Thompson-Lemoine now faces Capital Murder charges for the deaths of Antonio and Luz Rodriguez in 2005. Bond is set at $1 million dollars.

Statement by Director Steven McCraw on Release of Uvalde Video

July 12, 2022

AUSTIN - DPS Director Steven McCraw released the following statement regarding the early release of video from Robb Elementary School.

DPS Increases Enforcement to Keep Roads Safe on July Fourth

June 28, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will be initiating two traffic safety campaigns during the holiday weekend looking for people violating traffic laws from Friday, July 1, through Monday, July 4.

DPS Identifies Human Remains as 2013 Missing Person from Midland County

June 27, 2022

AUSTIN – Human remains found in Midland County in 2013 have now been positively identified as Sylvia Nicole Smith following an extensive investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). A homicide investigation is now underway.

Fugitives from San Antonio, Dallas Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists

June 23, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two fugitives to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists. Raynaldo Farias Tijerina, of San Antonio, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Cecil Colby Smith, of Dallas, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to Tijerina’s arrest and up to $3,000 for Smith’s. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Senate Special Committee to Protect All Texans - DPS Presentation Materials

June 22, 2022

Below are reference materials used by Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steven McCraw during his testimony on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, before the Senate Special Committee to Protect All Texans.

Nueces County Sex Offender Captured

May 24, 2022

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Guadalupe Cano is back in custody following his arrest on May 13 in Robstown. No Crime Stoppers Reward will be paid.

DPS Reminds Drivers to Buckle Up, Drive Safely for Memorial Day

May 23, 2022

AUSTIN – Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to summer, and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding drivers to celebrate safely as they enjoy their holiday. Today through May 30, the Texas Highway Patrol will participate in Click It or Ticket, as well as Operation CARE (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort). Click It or Ticket is an enforcement campaign that encourages people to wear their seat belts. Operation CARE is a specialized campaign in which Troopers look for drivers who are speeding, intoxicated or violating other laws. Troopers will also watch for drivers not complying with the state’s Move Over, Slow Down law.

Reward Offered for Man Making Terroristic Threats

May 20, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces an increased reward for fugitive Hardy Carroll Lloyd, who is wanted for making terroristic threats. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to Lloyd’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Honors Fallen Officers at Peace Officers Memorial Service

May 17, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) remembered those lost in the line of duty throughout the department’s history at the 2022 Peace Officers Memorial Service today. Those honored included Sgt. Paul Mooney, Special Agent Dustin Slovacek, and Special Agent Anthony “AC” Salas. The ceremony was held at DPS Headquarters in Austin, with Public Safety Commission Chairman Steven P. Mach as the guest speaker.

Escaped Inmate Convicted of Murder Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List

May 13, 2022

[UPDATE: 5/14/2022: The reward for information leading to Lopez's arrest has been increased to up to $50,000.] AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added prison escapee Gonzalo Artemio Lopez to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Lopez, 46, is wanted for escape and aggravated assault of a public servant. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to his arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Over 200 Illegal Migrants Discovered During Traffic Stops (DPS-South Texas Region

May 11, 2022

LAREDO - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) discovered over 200 illegal migrants after traffic stops it conducted in collaboration with the United States Border Patrol (USBP) in Webb County as part of Operation Lone Star.

Reward Increased in 1996 Harris County Cold Case

May 11, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 1996 slaying of Kristen Lea Wilson, 29, of Houston. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible if the tip is received before the next featured cold case is announced. A $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest is routinely offered on all cases on the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website.

DPS Celebrates Newly Commissioned Highway Patrol Troopers

May 6, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) commissioned 101 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from recruit class B-2021 during a graduation ceremony on Friday, May 6. The keynote speaker at the graduation was Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) member Dale Wainwright.

Gang Member from Johnson County Named May’s Featured Fugitive

May 4, 2022

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive David Daniel Boone has been named May’s Featured Fugitive. The reward is increased this month to $8,500 if information leading to his arrest is received from tips.

El Paso Gang Member on Texas 10 Most Wanted List Captured

May 2, 2022

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Kevin Garcia is back in custody after his arrest on April 27 in El Paso. No Crime Stoppers reward will be paid.

Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives from Houston, El Paso Captured

April 26, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Paul Berry III, of Houston, was arrested April 11 in Houston. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender John McMickings, of El Paso, was arrested April 14 in Georgia. Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid in the arrest of both men.

Sex Offenders from Pharr, Fort Worth Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted List

April 20, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two fugitives to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Humberto Carreon Acosta, of Pharr, and Arthur Kennedy Stevenson, of Fort Worth, are being sought. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for Acosta’s arrest, and $2,000 for Stevenson. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Presents Nine Awards at April Public Safety Commission Meeting

April 18, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), presented two Javier Arana Top Trooper Awards, five Lifesaving Awards, one Unit Citation and one Purple Heart at the PSC meeting on Thursday, April 14, at the DPS Headquarters in Austin.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders from Fort Stockton, Carrizo Springs Arrested

April 12, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Braulio Davila, of Fort Stockton, was arrested on April 3 in Boquillas del Carmen, Mexico. Joaquin Salgado IV, of Carrizo Springs, turned himself in to authorities on April 6. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in Davila’s capture.

Grand Prairie Subject Named Texas’ Featured Fugitive for April

April 11, 2022

AUSTIN – The reward for Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Gregory Jon Pecina Jr., who is this month’s featured fugitive, has been increased to $4,000 for information leading to his arrest if tips are received during the month of April.

March Featured Fugitive from Tulia Captured in Oregon

March 31, 2022

AUSTIN – March’s Featured Fugitive James Bishop is back in custody following his arrest on March 28 near Ashland, Ore. No Crime Stoppers reward will be paid.

Texas’ Most Wanted Fugitive Arrested in Dallas

March 28, 2022

AUSTIN – The No. 1 Most Wanted person on Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List is back in custody following his arrest on March 23 in Dallas. No Crime Stoppers reward will be paid.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders from Monahans, Somerville Captured

March 23, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders are back in custody following their recent arrests. Glen Edward Glass was arrested on March 17 in North Brunswick, N.J. ChaCha Mitchell Jackson was arrested on March 21 in Bryan, Texas. No Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid.

Carrollton Mega Center Moves to Appointment Only

March 18, 2022

AUSTIN – Since driver license and identification card services began being offered by appointment in May 2020, customers without appointments have formed long lines prior to business hours trying to secure one of the very limited number of same-day appointments available at offices across the state. In particular, lines at the Carrollton Mega Center have grown so long, they often increase beyond the limited number of same-day appointments available. Therefore, with the safety of our customers and staff in mind, effective Monday, March 21, 2022, the Carrollton Mega Center will move to an appointment only model and same-day appointments will no longer be offered at this location.

Nine Dead in Crash Near Andrews (DPS West Texas Region)

March 18, 2022

MIDLAND - According to preliminary information, on March 15, 2022 at approximately 8:17 p.m., a two vehicle major crash occurred on FM 1788 approximately ½ mile north of SH 115 in Andrews County. A Dodge 2500 pickup (vehicle 1) was traveling southbound on FM 1788. A Ford Transit passenger van (vehicle 2) registered to the University of the Southwest in Hobbs, NM was traveling northbound on FM 1788. For unknown reasons, the Dodge pickup drove into the northbound lane and struck the Ford passenger van head on.

In Case You Missed It: Reward Increased for March Featured Fugitive

March 17, 2022

AUSTIN – The reward for Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive James Mark Bishop, who is this month’s featured fugitive, has been increased to $8,500 for information leading to his arrest if tips are received during the month of March. Bishop, 49, is wanted for continuous sexual assault of a child, indecency with a child and knowingly downloading child pornography. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Arrests Five in Joint Human Trafficking Operations (DPS-West Texas Region)

March 15, 2022

MIDLAND – On March 4, 2022, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) conducted an Adult Prostitution Operation and Online Solicitation Operation in Midland. The goal was to target individuals seeking to exploit and victimize trafficking victims, as well as to identify and apprehend individuals suspected to be involved in human trafficking by using various websites to solicit sexual acts.

Reward Increased in 2020 Hood County Cold Case Slaying

March 15, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 2020 homicide of Andrea Stinson, of Granbury. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible if the tip is received before the next featured cold case is announced. A $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest is routinely offered on all cases on the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure (DPS South Texas Region)

March 14, 2022

CORPUS CHRISTI – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 22 kilograms of methamphetamine, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper working Operation Lone Star stopped a vehicle in Kleberg County.

DPS Increases Patrols for Spring Break

March 11, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase its presence on the roads to ensure highways are safe as part of a spring break enforcement campaign. From March 12 through March 20, the Texas Highway Patrol will be out looking for people who are violating traffic laws as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort). The Operation will include St. Patrick’s Day.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: DPS & TMD Stop Large Migrant Groups in Jim Hogg County

March 9, 2022

AUSTIN – Large groups of illegal immigrants were recently stopped in Jim Hogg County as a result of the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Military Department working collaboratively as part of Operation Lone Star’s Elite Brush Team.

Reward Increased for March Featured Fugitive from Swisher County

March 7, 2022

Aryan Brotherhood Gang Member Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List

March 3, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added David Daniel Boone to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list. Boone, 47, is wanted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, assault of a family/household member and a parole violation. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to his arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Top 10 Fugitives from Magnolia, Paris and Alice Arrested

February 25, 2022

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ Most Wanted Fugitives are back in custody following their arrests last week. They include Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Joshua David Whitworth, who was February’s Featured Fugitive, as well as Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders Michael Deray Johnson and Vernie Lee Hunt. Whitworth, of Magnolia, was arrested Feb. 16 in Arkansas. Johnson, of Paris, was arrested Feb. 18 in Sherman. Hunt, of Alice, was arrested Feb. 18 in Alice. Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid in the arrests of Whitworth and Johnson.

Gang Members on Texas 10 Most Wanted List Captured

February 23, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives are back in custody after their arrests last week. Ruben Alvarado Castro, of San Antonio, was arrested Feb. 15 in San Antonio, and Theodore Villarreal, of Kenedy, was arrested Feb. 17 in Kenedy. Both fugitives are members of the Texas Mexican Mafia. Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid in both arrests.

Fugitives from Paris, Wichita Falls Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List

February 17, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two fugitives to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Michael Deray Johnson, of Paris, and Christopher James Brett Clover, of Wichita Falls, are being sought. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for each fugitive for information leading to their arrests. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders from Fort Worth, Galveston Arrested

February 16, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders are back in custody after their arrests last week. Phillip Mark Ward, of Fort Worth, was arrested Feb. 8 in Fort Worth. Joe Louis Hernandez, of Galveston, turned himself in to the Galveston Police Department on Feb. 10. No Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid.

DPS Increases Enforcement, Offers Tips for a Safe Super Bowl Sunday

February 11, 2022

AUSTIN – Super Bowl LVI may feature the Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals, but the real winners of the game will be those who put safety first in their plans to watch the big game. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding the public that no matter what your plans are for the Super Bowl, to please enjoy it responsibly.

DPS Recognizes Two with William P. Clements Excellence Awards, 13 Other Awards at PSC Meeting

February 10, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Deputy Director Freeman Martin, presented two William P. Clements Excellence Awards, 10 Lifesaving Awards and a Unit Citation to department personnel at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Feb. 10, at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Two Director’s Awards were also presented to members of partner agencies at the meeting.

Fugitives from Galveston, Grand Prairie Added to Texas Most Wanted Sex Offenders List

February 9, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two men to Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Joe Louis Hernandez, of Galveston, and Gregory Jon Pecina Jr., of Grand Prairie, are being sought. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for Hernandez’s arrest, and up to $3,000 for Pecina. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Fugitive from Houston, San Antonio Gang Member Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted List

February 8, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two men to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Paul Matthew Berry III, of Houston, and Ruben Alvarado Castro, of San Antonio, are being sought. Cash rewards of up to $7,500 for each man are now offered for information leading to their arrests. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Arrests 35 in Joint Human Trafficking Operations

February 4, 2022

WEST TEXAS REGION – In January 2022, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) conducted multiple Adult Prostitution Operations and Online Solicitation of Minor Operations throughout the West Texas Region. The goal of the operations was to target individuals seeking to exploit and victimize trafficking victims, as well as to identify and apprehend individuals suspected to be involved in human trafficking by using various websites to solicit sexual acts from minors.

DPS Reminds CDL Applicants about Entry Level Driver Training

February 4, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding applicants for a commercial driver license (CDL) or certain endorsements that the Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements begin Feb. 7, 2022. Recent inclement weather has closed some driver license offices; however, the federal requirement has not been delayed as a result of these closures.

Driver License Office Closures for Feb. 4, 2022

February 3, 2022

AUSTIN - Due to inclement weather, several driver license offices across the state will be closed or have a delayed opening on Friday, Feb. 4, 2022.

Driver License Office Closures for Feb. 3, 2022

February 2, 2022

AUSTIN - Due to inclement weather, several driver license offices across the state will be closed or have a delayed opening on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022.

Reward Increased for February’s Featured Fugitive from Magnolia

February 1, 2022

AUSTIN – The reward for Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Joshua David Whitworth, who is also this month’s featured fugitive, has been increased to $8,500 for information leading to his arrest if tips are received during the month of February. Whitworth, 36, is wanted for a parole violation, aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon, theft and delivery of methamphetamine and cocaine. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Two of Texas’ Most Wanted from Duncanville, Ferris Back in Custody

January 31, 2022

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their arrests earlier this month, including one fugitive and one sex offender. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Bobby Joe Flores Jr. was arrested on Jan. 16 in Los Angeles. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Marcus Jarmine Wallace was captured Jan. 18 in McAllen. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in the Flores’ arrest.

State of Texas Announces Launch of Texas by Texas

January 31, 2022

AUSTIN, TX – The Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) today announced the launch of Texas by Texas (TxT), a digital assistant that allows Texans to create an online account, manage their government-issued licenses and registrations, receive proactive reminders when it’s time to take action, and complete transactions quickly and securely.

DPS Honors Fallen Special Agent Anthony Salas

January 28, 2022

AUSTIN – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agent Anthony Carlos “AC” Salas, 37, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 22, 2022, after being injured in a tragic accident near Eagle Pass on Jan. 21

DPS Announces Passing of Special Agent Anthony Salas

January 22, 2022

AUSTIN – It is with great sadness the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the death of DPS Special Agent Anthony Salas.

DPS Offers Safety Tips Ahead of Wintry Weather

January 19, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding Texans that freezing rain, ice and snow can pose major hazards to drivers and pedestrians and is urging residents to be careful in such conditions.

Reward Increased in 1977 Winkler County Cold Case

January 18, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 1977 slaying of 73-year-old S.A. “Champ” Weaver, then the Precinct 4 Constable of Winkler County. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible if the tip is received before the next featured cold case is announced. A $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest is routinely offered on all cases on the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website.

DPS Announces Waiver for Select CDLs to Assist with School Bus Driver Shortage

January 14, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety announces the implementation of a waiver for commercial driver license (CDL) applicants seeking to operate a school bus. This waiver is effective Jan. 24, 2022, and expires March 31, 2022.

Smuggler Hides Illegal Immigrants Inside Plywood Crates (DPS South Texas Region)

January 13, 2022

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), during Operation Lone Star, located 22 illegal immigrants concealed inside two plywood crates after a Highway Patrol Trooper conducted a traffic stop in Webb County. (DPS South Texas Region)

DPS Reminds Texans to Use iWatchTexas, Other Valuable Resources

January 12, 2022

AUSTIN – As kids kick off the second half of the school year, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds students, parents, teachers and other school administrators that the iWatchTexas program is a critical resource for reporting suspicious activity in schools and communities in order to help prevent dangerous attacks. During the 2020-21 school year, there were no school shootings in Texas. By using the numerous resources available, everyone can continue working to prevent attacks by reporting any potential threats.

Smuggler Conceals 28 Illegal Immigrants Inside Tractor-Trailer (DPS South Texas Region)

January 11, 2022

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), during Operation Lone Star, located 28 illegal immigrants concealed inside a commercial vehicle after a Highway Patrol Trooper conducted a traffic stop in Webb County.

Reward Increased for January’s Featured Fugitive from Duncanville

January 6, 2022

AUSTIN – The reward for Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Bobby Joe Flores Jr., who’s this month’s featured fugitive, has been increased to $6,000 for information leading to his arrest if tips are received during January. Flores, 34, is wanted for continuous sexual abuse of a young child and failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Program Hits Record Number of Captures in 2021

January 4, 2022

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is pleased to announce that in 2021, it had the highest number of Most Wanted Offenders captured in a single year since the program’s inception in 1993. Last year DPS, in cooperation with state, federal, local and Mexican authorities,* captured a record 34 fugitives and sex offenders. This breaks the previous record of 32 captures that was set in 2013. Additionally, $71,500 in rewards was paid in anonymous tips that resulted in arrests.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender from Bosque County Arrested

December 20, 2021

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Manuel Muniz, of Morgan, is back in custody following his arrest on Dec. 13. Members of U.S. Border Patrol encountered Muniz at the Del Rio-Acuna Port of Entry. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in his arrest.

DPS Encourages Safe Driving for the Holidays

December 17, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is encouraging everyone to end 2021 safely as they head out on the road for the holidays. The Texas Highway Patrol will conduct its annual Christmas and New Year’s holiday traffic enforcement campaigns beginning Dec. 23, looking for people who are speeding, not wearing their seat belts, driving while intoxicated or committing other traffic violations.

TMD, DPS Discuss Fence Construction at Weekly OLS Media Briefing

December 16, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Military Department (TMD) and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) hosted a media briefing Thursday to provide an update on Operation Lone Star (OLS). The briefing was held at DPS’ regional headquarters in Weslaco.

DPS Discovers 100 Illegal Immigrants in Semi-Trailer (DPS South Texas Region)

December 14, 2021

LAREDO — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID), during Operation Lone Star, located 100 illegal immigrants in a tractor trailer after a DPS Special Agent observed criminal activity involving the commercial vehicle in Webb County.

10 Most Wanted Fugitives from Marble Falls, Pearsall, Mt. Pleasant Captured

December 13, 2021

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives are back in custody following their arrests. Marshall Willard Brown was arrested Dec. 1 in Austin. Richard Anthony Banda was arrested Dec. 2 in Dilley. Christopher Wayne Davis II was arrested Dec. 6 in Longview. No rewards will be paid in their arrests.

DPS Recognizes Multi-Organizational Efforts to Protect State at Final PSC Meeting of 2021

December 10, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw awarded 17 Lifesaving Awards; one Unit Citation; and one Purple Heart to department personnel at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Dec. 9, at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Ten Director’s Awards were also presented to members of partner agencies at the meeting.

Two Texas Most Wanted Sex Offenders Captured

December 10, 2021

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders are back in custody following their arrests last month. Jackie Dale Brown was arrested Nov. 29 in Killeen, while William Daniel Clifford was arrested Nov. 30 in Arkansas. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in the arrests of both men.

DPS Discusses Impacts of Fentanyl in U.S. at Weekly OLS Media Briefing

December 9, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas Military Department (TMD) hosted a media briefing Thursday to provide an update on Operation Lone Star (OLS) and to discuss the deadly impact of fentanyl crossing into the U.S. The briefing was held at DPS’ regional headquarters in Weslaco.

Reward Increased for December Featured Fugitive from Sherman

December 6, 2021

AUSTIN – The reward for Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Justin Marquiwis Cuba, who is this month’s featured fugitive, is now $8,500 for information that leads to his arrest if tips are received during December. Cuba, 33, is wanted on charges of murder and failure to appear. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Tulia Fugitive, Fort Worth Sex Offender Added to Texas Most Wanted Lists

December 2, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two men to the Texas 10 Most Wanted lists. James Mark Bishop, of Tulia, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Phillip Mark Ward, of Fort Worth, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to Bishop’s arrest and $5,000 for Ward.

DPS Continues Saturday Services for Commercial Driver Licenses at Select Offices in December

December 2, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the continuation of additional Saturday appointments at select commercial driver license (CDL) offices for customers needing to apply, renew, replace or upgrade their Texas CDL in the month of December. Participating driver license offices will offer a limited number of appointments on Dec. 4 and 11 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Dec. 18 from 7 to 11 a.m.

New Details Released in Unsolved Samuel Little Murders

December 1, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Rangers, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Program and the United States Department of Justice are releasing new details in more than a dozen unsolved murders committed by serial killer Samuel Little, AKA Samuel McDowell, in hopes of bringing closure to these cases.

DPS Increases Traffic Enforcement for Thanksgiving Holiday

November 22, 2021

AUSTIN – There is a lot to be thankful for this year, and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants to ensure people are able to get to and from their holiday celebrations safely. Texas Highway Patrol Troopers will increase enforcement on the roads from Wednesday, Nov. 24, through Sunday, Nov. 28. DPS Troopers will be looking for people not wearing seat belts, driving while intoxicated, speeding and failing to follow the Move Over, Slow Down law, among other traffic violations.

DPS, TMD, & TDCJ Discuss OLS Arrest and Detention Process

November 19, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas Military Department (TMD) hosted a media briefing Thursday featuring the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to provide an update on Operation Lone Star (OLS). The briefing was held at DPS’ regional headquarters in Weslaco.

November Featured Fugitive Captured in Killeen

November 19, 2021

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Featured Fugitive Charles Lee Tillman Jr., of Missouri City, is back in custody following his arrest on Nov. 9. Members of the U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, including Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents, arrested Tillman at a house in Killeen. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in his arrest.

Gang Member from Magnolia, Sex Offender from El Paso Added to Texas Most Wanted Lists

November 17, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two men to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists. Joshua David Whitworth, of Magnolia, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. John Oliver Talmadge McMickings, of El Paso, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to Whitworth’s arrest and capture and $3,000 for McMickings. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Graduates Three New K-9 Teams

November 17, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) graduated three new K-9 teams from a nine-week training program on Nov. 12. These K-9 teams will join more than 50 DPS Canine Detection Teams across Texas within DPS’ Texas Highway Patrol Division.

DPS Seeks Leads in 1981 Slaying of Harris County Mother

November 16, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 1981 cold case homicide of 22-year-old Karen Lynn Douglas, of Harris County. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is now offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible if the tip is received before the next featured cold case is announced. A $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest is routinely offered on all cases on the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website.

Three Most Wanted Offenders from Harleton, Odessa and Corpus Christi Captured

November 9, 2021

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted offenders are back in custody following their arrests, including one fugitive and two sex offenders. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Billy Ray Dake was arrested Nov. 1 in Wichita Falls, TX. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Fernando Cruz Ramirez was arrested Nov. 3 in Odessa. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Arnoldo Reyes Aranbula was arrested Nov. 5 in Corpus Christi. Their arrests were not the results of tips, so no rewards will be paid.

DPS Seeking Public’s Assistance to Return Stolen Items

November 5, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Capitol Region Criminal Investigations Division, in collaboration with Austin Police Department Property Crimes Detectives, recovered several stolen items earlier this week from an organized theft ring operating in the Austin area.

DPS Labs Adopt New National Science Standards

November 5, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is proud to announce that its Crime Laboratory Division laboratories have been recognized for voluntarily adopting national forensic standards published by the Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science (OSAC), created by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The DPS laboratories have been recognized by NIST as OSAC Implementers.

TMD, DPS Provide Update on OLS, Discuss Operation Steel Curtain at Weekly Media Briefing

November 4, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Military Department (TMD) and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) hosted a media briefing today to provide an update on Operation Lone Star (OLS). The briefing was held at DPS’ regional headquarters in Weslaco.

Reward Increased to $8,500 for November Featured Fugitive from Missouri City

November 4, 2021

AUSTIN – The reward for Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Charles Lee Tillman Jr., who’s this month’s featured fugitive, has been increased to $8,500 for information leading to his arrest if tips are received during November. Tillman, 34, is wanted for murder and a parole violation. Remember, all tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS Adds Saturday Services for Commercial Driver Licenses at Select Offices in November

November 4, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added additional Saturday appointment availability at select commercial driver license (CDL) offices for customers needing to apply, renew, replace or upgrade their Texas CDL. Participating driver license offices will offer a limited number of appointments on Nov. 6, 13 and 20 to help Texans with CDL services. The offices will be open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender from South Texas Captured

November 1, 2021

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender John Anthony Rangel is back in custody following his arrest on Oct. 22. He was arrested in Harlingen by Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents, who coordinated with Texas Highway Patrol to conduct a traffic stop after Rangel was seen leaving a house. Rangel is from the Harlingen area. His arrest was not the result of a tip, so no reward will be paid.

DPS Offers Safety Tips for a Spooktacular Halloween

October 29, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging ghosts and goblins of all ages to keep safety in mind while having a ghoulishly good time this Halloween.

DPS, TMD Discuss Railcars, Staging Personnel at OLS Weekly Briefing

October 28, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas Military Department (TMD) held a media briefing today to provide an update on the progress of Operation Lone Star (OLS). The briefing was held at DPS’ regional headquarters in Weslaco.

Two Year Investigation Leads to Federal Indictment and Subsequent Arrest of Multiple Suspects

October 22, 2021

SAN ANGELO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigation Division (CID), in conjunction with the San Angelo Police Department (SAPD) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), conducted a two year Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation which led to the federal indictment and the subsequent arrest of suspects for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine (> 500 grams).

TMD, DPS Discuss Military Surge and Provide Update at Weekly OLS Briefing

October 21, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Military Department (TMD) and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) held a media briefing today to provide an update on the mobilization of resources by the TMD to strengthen the state as part of Operation Lone Star (OLS) at the direction of Gov. Greg Abbott. The briefing was held at DPS’ regional headquarters in Weslaco.

DPS Joint Operation Nets 14 for Solicitation of Prostitution (DPS-West Texas Region)

October 20, 2021

EL PASO – On October 5 and 6, 2021, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID), in conjunction with the El Paso Police Department (EPPD) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), conducted an Adult Prostitution Operation in El Paso, Texas. The goal was to target individuals trying to exploit and victimize adult prostitutes, as well as to identify and apprehend individuals with suspected involvement in human trafficking by using various websites to solicit sexual acts from adults.

Two of Texas’ Most Wanted from Dallas, Lubbock Back in Custody

October 19, 2021

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ Most Wanted are back in custody following their arrests, including one fugitive and one sex offender. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Alberto Mendoza was arrested Oct. 13 in Dallas. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Cory Lee Reed was captured Oct. 14 in Canyon. A Crime Stoppers reward will be paid in the arrests of both men.

National School Bus Safety Week 2021

October 18, 2021

AUSTIN – National School Bus Safety Week is Oct. 18-22 and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) would like to remind the public that they play an important role in ensuring the school buses make it to their destinations safely each day.

TMD, DPS Provide Update on Progress of OLS at Weekly Briefing

October 14, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Military Department (TMD) and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) held a media briefing today to provide an update on the progress of Operation Lone Star (OLS). The briefing was held at DPS’ regional headquarters in Weslaco.

DPS Recognizes Lifesaving Efforts at PSC Meeting

October 14, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw awarded two Director’s Citations; seven Lifesaving Awards; and one Purple Heart to department personnel at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Oct. 14, at DPS Headquarters in Austin. One Director’s Award was also presented to a member of a partner agency at the meeting.

Homicide Suspect from Sherman, Lubbock Sex Offender Added to Texas Most Wanted Lists

October 7, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two men to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists. Justin Marquiwis Cuba, of Sherman, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Cory Lee Reed, of Lubbock, has been added to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to Cuba’s arrest and capture and $3,000 for Reed. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

DPS, TMD Address Migrant Surge at Weekly Operation Lone Star Briefing

September 30, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas Military Department (TMD) today held a media briefing to provide an update on the operations that were conducted to contain the recent migrant surge in Del Rio near the port of entry as part of the Operation Lone Star (OLS) mission. The briefing was held at DPS’ regional headquarters in Weslaco.

DPS Graduates First Ever EMT Class

September 30, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is making history, graduating its first ever DPS Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) class. The class of 15 Troopers graduated during a ceremony at DPS Headquarters in Austin on Thursday, Sept. 30.

DPS Releases Crime in Texas Report

September 29, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today announced the release of the 2020 Crime in Texas Report. The report is a collaborative effort and the direct result of the more than 1,200 Texas sheriffs and chiefs of police who participate in the Uniform Crime Reporting program.

Gang Member, Sex Offender Added to Texas Most Wanted Lists

September 28, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two men to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Lists. Charles Lee Tillman, Jr., of Missouri City, is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Bobby Joe Flores, Jr., of Duncanville, is now on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to Tillman’s arrest and capture and $5,000 for Flores. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Gang Members on Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List Arrested

September 24, 2021

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives are back in custody after being arrested this week. Edward De Los Santos was captured Sept. 22 in Austin, and Moises Calderon was captured Sept. 23 in San Antonio. Both arrests were the results of tips and Crime Stoppers rewards will be paid.

Men from Dallas, San Antonio Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List

September 22, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two men to Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. Alberto Mendoza and Moises Calderon are being sought, and cash rewards of up to $7,500 each are now offered for information leading to their captures. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Texas DPS Seeks Help Locating Hit and Run Driver (DPS - Central Texas Region)

September 21, 2021

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking the public’s help in identifying a vehicle that struck a pedestrian and failed to stop and render aid.

Child Passenger Safety Week 2021

September 21, 2021

AUSTIN – Child Passenger Safety Week is Sept. 19-25, and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants to remind the public that having your children properly secured in a car seat is crucial in reducing their risk of injury and death in a vehicle crash.

DPS Arrests Eight for Solicitation of Prostitution in Joint Operation (DPS-West Texas Region)

September 20, 2021

EL PASO – September 15 & 16, 2021, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID), in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), conducted a Prostitution Operation in El Paso, Texas, targeting individuals seeking to exploit and victimize minors and adults online, as well as to identify and apprehend individuals suspected of human trafficking using websites to solicit sexual acts from minors and adults.

Austin Man Charged with Throwing Molotov Cocktail

September 17, 2021

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DPS, TMD Hold First Weekly Operation Lone Star Briefing

September 16, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Military Department (TMD) and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today held a briefing at DPS’ regional headquarters in Weslaco to discuss progress made so far during Operation Lone Star (OLS), the mission to secure the southern border under the direction of Governor Greg Abbott.

Man Charged in Comal County Teen’s 1993 Cold Case Killing

September 15, 2021

AUSTIN – A Brazoria man is in custody on one count of murder in the 28-year-old homicide of San Antonio teenager Emily Jeanette Garcia. Thomas Ray Galindo, 50, was arrested on Friday at his home in Brazoria by the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Violent Offenders and Fugitive Task Force and transferred to Comal County, where the crime occurred, on Wednesday. He is charged with killing 15-year-old Garcia in February 1993.

DPS Seeks Leads in Teen’s 1988 Cold Case Killing

September 14, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 1988 cold case homicide of 15-year-old Michael Flores, of Cameron County. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is now offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible if the tip is received before the next featured Texas Ranger cold case is announced. A $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest is routinely offered on all cases on the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure (DPS South Texas Region)

September 13, 2021

WESLACO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 15 pounds of heroin, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Starr County as part of Operation Lone Star

Three of Texas’ Most Wanted are Now Back in Custody

September 13, 2021

AUSTIN – Three of Texas’ Most Wanted are back in custody following arrests earlier this month, including one fugitive and two sex offenders. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Xavier Montreal Benard was arrested Sept. 3 in Houston. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Valentine Johnathan Price was arrested on Sept. 2 in Fort Worth, and Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Henry Anthony Taylor was arrested on Sept. 8 in South Bend, Ind. A Crime Stoppers reward of $3,000 will be paid for Price’s capture.

DPS Seizes More Than 600 Pounds of Marijuana (DPS South Texas Region)

September 12, 2021

WESLACO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 683 pounds of marijuana in a collaborative effort with U.S. Border Patrol in Starr County as part of Operation Lone Star.

DPS, TMD Announce Operation Lone Star Weekly Media Briefings

September 9, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas Military Department (TMD) are launching a weekly media briefing to discuss the progress of Operation Lone Star (OLS), Governor Abbott's initiative to secure our southern border. The briefings will be hosted by representatives from DPS and TMD.

Reward Increased to $8,500 for Brazoria County Fugitive

September 7, 2021

AUSTIN – The reward for Margaret Lorrain Smith, a Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive and this month’s featured fugitive, has been increased to $8,500 for information leading to her arrest if the tips are received during the month of September. Smith, 62, is wanted for capital murder.

$10,000 Reward Offered for Man Seen Throwing Molotov Cocktail Near Capitol

September 3, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is asking for the public’s help in identifying an individual who threw a Molotov cocktail against a church near the Capitol Complex on Aug. 31. A reward of up to $10,000 is being offered for information that leads to the identification and arrest of this individual.

DPS Encourages Safety for Labor Day Holiday

September 2, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) encourages everyone to drive safely as they celebrate the unofficial end of summer during the long Labor Day weekend. The Texas Highway Patrol will be increasing enforcement from Sept. 3 through Sept. 6, looking for people not wearing their seat belts, speeders, people driving while intoxicated and drivers who fail to follow the state’s Move Over, Slow Down law, among other traffic violations.

Fort Worth Sex Offender Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted List

August 31, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Valentine Johnathan Price to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List. Price, 37, is wanted for failure to register as a sex offender and a parole violation. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for information leading his arrest and capture.

Midland Fugitives on Texas 10 Most Wanted List Arrested

August 27, 2021

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives are back in custody this week. Joshua Dee Daniels, of Midland, was arrested on Aug. 23 in Aransas Pass. David Ramirez Mojica, of Midland, was arrested on Aug. 24 in Midland. The arrests were not from tips, so no rewards will be paid.

Sex Offenders on Texas 10 Most Wanted List from Amarillo, Hamilton Captured

August 23, 2021

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders are back in custody. Bryant Keith Martin Jr., of Amarillo, was arrested on Aug. 16 in Amarillo. Joseph Darwin Watson, of Hamilton, was captured on Aug. 18 in Stephenville. The arrests were not from tips, so no rewards will be paid.

DPS Inspects Commercial Vehicles, Checks Drivers During International Roadcheck 2021

August 18, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) inspected 6,288 commercial motor vehicles as part of International Roadcheck 2021, a national inspection initiative that’s held annually and aimed at enhancing commercial motor vehicle safety. The three-day inspection effort included DPS Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Troopers, specially trained Highway Patrol Troopers, civilian inspectors, compliance review investigators and local partner agencies.

Rewards Offered for Men from Midland, Hamilton Just Added to Most Wanted Lists

August 17, 2021

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two men to the state’s Most Wanted lists. Joshua Dee Daniels is now on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list with a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to his arrest. Joseph Darwin Watson is on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders list with a cash reward of up to $3,000 for information leading to his arrest.

DPS Announces One Retirement and Promotes Three to Leadership Positions

August 13, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the retirement of Lt. Col. Randall B. Prince after more than 32 years of faithful service, along with three promotions to leadership positions. Prince currently serves as the Deputy Director of Law Enforcement Operations for DPS and will retire on Aug. 31. he promotions include current Texas Highway Patrol (THP) Chief Dwight D. Mathis to Deputy Director of Law Enforcement Operations, Regional Director Orlando Alanis to Texas Highway Patrol Chief and Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Major Jose Sanchez to Regional Director of the West Texas Region.

DPS Presents Awards, including Medal of Valor, at August PSC Meeting

August 12, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw presented one Medal of Valor, the highest honor and award bestowed by DPS, two Lifesaving Awards and two Director’s Awards to department personnel at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Aug. 12, at DPS Headquarters in Austin. The Outstanding Women in State Government Award was also presented.

DPS Urges Drivers to Be Aware as School Year Begins

August 9, 2021

AUSTIN – With the school year beginning in person for many districts across the state, the Texas Department of Public Safety is reminding the public of steps they can take to keep students and staff members safe. This includes slowing down in school zones, staying off cell phones and being aware at all times while around school buses.

Fatal Crash in Brooks County Kills 10 (DPS-South Texas Region)

August 5, 2021

Corpus Christi – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is investigating a one vehicle multiple fatality crash that occurred on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 at approximately 4:00 p.m. It happened on US 281 at the intersection of Business 281, approximately one and a half miles south of Encino, Texas, in Brooks County.

Two of Texas’ Top 10 Most Wanted Captured

August 3, 2021

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ Most Wanted are back in custody following arrests. Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Leonard Dee Taylor was arrested on July 23 in Houston, and Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Dakevian Beniot Scroggins was arrested on July 24 in Tyler. A Crime Stoppers reward of $3,000 will be paid to a tipster for providing information leading to Taylor’s arrest.

DPS Seeks Public’s Help in Fatal Hit and Run (DPS-North Texas Region)

August 2, 2021

MINERAL WELLS – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is asking for the public’s help in the investigation of a fatal hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of a pedestrian in Parker County. The incident occurred on July 29, 2021 at approximately 10:10 p.m. on State Highway 199, in the area of South Drive, west of Springtown.

DPS Makes History with Largest Texas Highway Patrol Recruit Graduation

July 30, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) commissioned 145 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from its A-2021 recruit class during a graduation ceremony on Friday, July 30. It’s the largest recruit school graduation in DPS history and also one of the most diverse. The keynote speaker at Friday’s graduation was Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

DPS to Host Facilities Career Fair on Thursday, July 29

July 28, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Infrastructure Operations Division will host a Facilities Career Fair on Thursday, July 29, from 1 – 6 p.m. The career fair will take place at DPS’ Austin Headquarters in the Building A Lobby, located at 5805 North Lamar Blvd., Austin, Texas 78752.

Highway Dedication Honors Fallen Trooper (DPS – South Texas Region)

July 26, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today held a dedication ceremony for a portion of U.S. Highway 281 to honor Cpl. Roel Garcia, a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper who died in March 1997 when his patrol vehicle was involved in a wreck.

DPS Opens New Driver License Office in Denton

July 23, 2021

DENTON – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) opened its new Denton Driver License (DL) Office on Wednesday, July 21, 2021. The facility is located at 4020 E. McKinney in Denton.

Tyler Murder Suspect Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted List

July 19, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Dakevian Beniot Scroggins, 27, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list. Scroggins is wanted for capital murder, evading arrest/detention and a parole violation.

Top 10 Fugitives from Laredo, Springtown Captured

July 15, 2021

AUSTIN – Two of Texas’ Top 10 Fugitives are back in custody after arrests earlier this month. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Heriberto Cardenas was arrested on July 7, in Laredo, and Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Ralph Ballard was arrested on July 8, in College Station. Crime Stoppers rewards will not be paid in either case.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Weapons and Drug Seizure (DPS South Texas Region)

July 7, 2021

DEL RIO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized three firearms and 1.38 pounds of marijuana, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in La Salle County as part of Operation Lone Star.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Cash Seizure in Maverick County (DPS South Texas Region)

July 5, 2021

DEL RIO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) during Operation Lone Star seized over $70,000 in cash after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Maverick County.

Reward Increased for Wanted Sex Offender from San Antonio

July 2, 2021

AUSTIN – The reward for Henry Anthony Taylor, a Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender and this month’s featured fugitive, has been increased to $4,000 for information leading to his arrest if the tip comes in during the month of July.

DPS Kicks Off Two Operations to Keep Roads Safe this Holiday

July 1, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will be increasing the number of Texas Highway Patrol Troopers on the road from Friday, July 2, through Monday, July 5, as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness Reduction and Effort) and Operation Holiday. DPS Troopers will be on the roads looking for drivers who are speeding, driving while intoxicated or not their wearing seat belts.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Seizure of More than $300,000 (DPS South Texas Region)

June 30, 2021

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) during Operation Lone Star seized $389,620 in cash after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in La Salle County.

Reward Increased in Guadalupe County Cold Case

June 22, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 1985 disappearance of Kathleen Laura Attwood Ranft, of Guadalupe County. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is now offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible if the tip is received before the next featured Texas Ranger cold case is announced.

DPS Pursuit Leads to Drug Seizure (DPS South Texas Region)

June 20, 2021

WESLACO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 20 pounds of marijuana and two pounds of cocaine, after a Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Hidalgo County during Operation Lone Star.

DPS Announces Loss of West Texas Trooper (DPS-West Texas Region)

June 18, 2021

EL PASO – It is with great sadness the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the death of a Trooper in El Paso County. Sergeant Paul Mooney, 52, died Monday, June 14, 2021. He was battling cancer and was recently hospitalized with COVID-19.

DPS Encourages Texans to Be Smart in Summer Heat

June 18, 2021

AUSTIN – As temperatures rise this summer, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging the public to take extra safety precautions to avoid some common heat-related dangers, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

Huntsville Man Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders List

June 17, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Brett James Martinson to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders list. Martinson, 47, is wanted for failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements, aggregate theft and a parole violation. Texas Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and capture of Martinson.

Man Charged in 2010 Cold Case Slaying of Mitchell County Teen

June 16, 2021

AUSTIN – More than a decade after she was last seen alive, a person has been charged in the cold case slaying of Mitchell County eighth-grader Hailey Dunn. Shawn Casey Adkins, 35, of Big Spring, was arrested Monday, June 14, in Big Spring and charged with one count of murder in the death of 13-year-old Dunn.

24 Missing Children Recovered in Joint Operation (DPS-West Texas Region)

June 15, 2021

EL PASO – A multi-agency effort, led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), has resulted in the recovery of 24 missing and/or runaway children throughout El Paso County and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

DPS Announces New Assistant Chief Auditor

June 14, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) recently announced the promotion of Susan Oballe to assistant chief for the Chief Auditor’s Office. The promotion, effective June 10, was approved at the June meeting of the Public Safety Commission (PSC). She’ll be stationed at DPS headquarters in Austin.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Stash House (DPS South Texas Region)

June 12, 2021

WESLACO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) disrupted a smuggling attempt after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Hidalgo County as part of Operation Lone Star.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to More than $100k Cash Seizure (DPS South Texas Region)

June 11, 2021

WESLACO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized $147,490 in cash when a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper assigned to Operation Lone Star stopped a vehicle in Hidalgo County.

DPS Recognizes Achievements at PSC Meeting

June 10, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) along with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw presented two Adolph Thomas Distinguished Service Awards and three Lifesaving Awards to department personnel at the PSC meeting on Thursday, June 10, at DPS Headquarters in Austin. One Director’s Award was also presented to a member of a partner agency at the meeting.

Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Arrested in Fort Worth

June 8, 2021

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Tieon Lashad Legan is back in custody after investigators received a Crime Stoppers tip about his whereabouts. Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents and Tarrant County Sheriff’s deputies used the information to locate and arrest Legan at an apartment complex in Fort Worth on June 1. A reward of $7,500 will be paid to the tipster.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Weapons Seizure (DPS South Texas Region)

June 7, 2021

WESLACO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized seven firearms and various firearm parts, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Hidalgo County during Operation Lone Star.

DPS Finds 70 Bundles of Cocaine After Traffic Crash

June 3, 2021

AUSTIN – On Monday, May 31, 2021, Texas Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol Troopers responded to a two-vehicle crash on US 83 and Suntex Road, just west of Rio Grande City, Texas.

Brazoria Co. Woman Added to Most Wanted Fugitives List

May 25, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Margaret Lorrain Smith to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list. Smith, 62, has been wanted since 2009 for fleeing during her capital murder case. Texas Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $7,500 for information leading to her arrest and capture.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure (DPS South Texas Region)

May 23, 2021

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has seized 346 pounds of marijuana, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Starr County during Operation Lone Star.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Weapons Seizure During OLS (DPS South Texas Region)

May 21, 2021

WESLACO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) during Operation Lone Star seized more than a dozen firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition when a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Hidalgo County.

DPS Increases Highway Enforcement for Click It or Ticket, Memorial Day Weekend

May 21, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants to remind drivers to travel safely as we close out May and head into the Memorial Day holiday. Monday, May 24, through Monday, May 31, Texas Highway Patrol Troopers will participate in Click It or Ticket, an enforcement campaign to encourage people to wear their seat belt, as well as Operation CARE (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort), looking for drivers who are intoxicated, speeding or breaking other traffic laws.

DPS Honors Fallen Officers at Memorial Service

May 18, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) remembered and paid tribute to Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, Texas Rangers and Special Agents who lost their lives in the line of duty at today’s 2021 Peace Officers Memorial Service.

Man Charged in 15-Year-Old Llano County Cold Case

May 13, 2021

AUSTIN – The former landlord of a Llano County woman who went missing in 2006 is now charged in her death. On May, 3, 2021, Jimmy Wolfenbarger, 57, of Lubbock, was indicted in Llano County on one count of murder in the November 2006 death of Holly Simmons, 46, of Buchanan Dam.

ICYMI: Suspect Charged in 1995 Ranger Cold Case

May 13, 2021

AUSTIN – An Ohio man is now in custody charged in the 1995 death of a beloved Texas teacher. Clayton Bernard Foreman, 61, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, was arrested April 26 in Franklin County, Ohio.

Captured: Two of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Back in Custody

May 13, 2021

AUSTIN – In the last week authorities have captured two of Texas’ Top 10 fugitives. Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Eric Munoz was captured on May 4, 2021, in Donna, Texas, during Operation Lone Star, while Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Marcus Lee Torres was arrested on May 7, 2021, in Snyder, Texas

DPS Seeks Public’s Help in Fatal Hit and Run - (DPS North Texas Region)

May 11, 2021

GARLAND – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is asking for the public’s help in the investigation of fatal hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of a pedestrian in Hunt County. The incident occurred on May 10 at approximately 9:42 p.m. in the 5500 block of State Highway (SH) 224.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure (DPS South Texas Region)

May 7, 2021

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 44 pounds of methamphetamine on May 7, 2021, during a traffic stop in Webb County.

Rewards Offered for Two Sex Offenders Added to 10 Most Wanted List

May 5, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added two fugitives to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders list, and cash rewards of up to $3,000 each are now being offered for information leading to their captures. Marcus Lee Torres, 39, is wanted for failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements and a parole violation. Henry Anthony Taylor, 52, who is a high-risk sex offender, is wanted for failure to register as a sex offender.

Senate Confirms Public Safety Commission Members

April 30, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas State Senate has confirmed three members of the Public Safety Commission (PSC). Nelda L. Blair, Steve H. Stodghill and Dale Wainwright will each serve six year terms on the PSC, providing oversight for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Department of Public Safety and Travis County District Attorney’s Office Release Joint Statement

April 29, 2021

Today, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Travis County District Attorney’s office released a joint statement.

DPS Presents Two William P. Clements Excellence Awards, One Lifesaving Award

April 29, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, presented two William P. Clements Excellence Awards and one Lifesaving Award to members of the department at the PSC meeting on Thursday, April 29, at the DPS Headquarters in Austin.

DPS Traffic Stop in Webb County Leads to Drug Seizure (DPS South Texas Region)

April 28, 2021

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 50 pounds of marijuana during a traffic stop on April 28, in Webb County.

DPS Makes Arrests for Online Solicitation and Prostitution in Joint Operation (DPS-West Texas Region)

April 28, 2021

EL PASO – During the past week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), conducted a human trafficking operation in El Paso, Texas. The goal of the operation was to target individuals soliciting prostitutes, as well as individuals seeking to exploit and victimize children by soliciting them on the internet.

Captured: Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Arrested in Corpus Christi

April 27, 2021

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Jaime Alanis, 37, was taken into custody on April 20, after investigators received a Crime Stoppers tip on his whereabouts. A reward of $7,500 will now be paid to the tipster.

Increased Reward Offered in Lubbock County Cold Case

April 22, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 1987 homicide of Veronica Taylor. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is now offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible if the tip is received before the announcement of the next featured Texas Rangers cold case. A $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest is routinely offered on all cases on the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website.

ICYMI: DPS Graduates Three New Canine Teams

April 21, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) recently graduated three new canine teams from a nine-week training program on Thursday, April 1. These canine teams will join more than 50 DPS Canine Detection Teams across Texas within the Texas Highway Patrol Division.

Expiration Waiver for Driver Licenses has Now Ended

April 15, 2021

AUSTIN – The COVID-related waiver on expiration dates for driver licenses (DLs) and identification cards (IDs) has now ended. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) continues to urge customers with an expired DL or ID to make an appointment or renew online today.

Rewards Offered for Two Fugitives Added to 10 Most Wanted List

April 13, 2021

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Tieon Lashad Legan, 25, (pictured left) and Jaime Alanis, 37, (pictured right) to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list, and cash rewards of up to $7,500 each are now being offered for information leading to either of their captures.

Fallen Trooper Honored with Highway Dedication

April 8, 2021

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today held a dedication ceremony for a portion of U.S. Highway 60 in honor of DPS Trooper Matthew Dewayne Myrick, who died in a vehicle crash while responding to a call in 2006.

DPS Makes Arrests for Online Solicitation of Minors in Joint Operation (DPS-West Texas Region)

April 1, 2021

EL PASO – During the past week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), conducted a human trafficking operation in El Paso, Texas. The goal of the operation was to target individuals seeking to exploit and victimize children by soliciting them on the internet.

DPS Trooper Dies in Line of Duty Shooting

March 31, 2021

AUSTIN – It is with great sadness the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the death of a Highway Patrol Trooper following a shooting incident in Limestone County.

Reminder: Increased Reward in Mason County Cold Case

March 25, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 2001 homicide of James Charles “Jimmy” Schuessler. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible if the tip is received before the next featured Texas Rangers cold case is announced.

Operation Lone Star in the News

March 24, 2021

As part of Operation Lone Star and under the direction of Governor Abbott, DPS continues its presence, including air, ground, marine and tactical security assets, along the border to combat the smuggling of people and drugs into Texas.

DPS Increases Road Enforcement for Spring Break

March 11, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is stepping up enforcement efforts as traffic picks up for spring break. DPS Texas Highway Patrol Troopers will increase traffic enforcement as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) from March 13 through March 21, including St. Patrick’s Day.

CAPTURED: Most Wanted Fugitive Arrested in Texarkana

March 2, 2021

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Featured Fugitive Marques Jujuan Thompson, 20, is back in custody after being captured on Feb. 23, in Texarkana, Texas. He was added to the Most Wanted list on Jan. 27. A Crime Stoppers reward will not be paid in his arrest.

DPS Makes Arrests in Joint Operation (DPS-West Texas Region)

March 1, 2021

EL PASO – On Feb. 24 and 25, 2021, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID), in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), conducted an operation targeting those involved in the sexual exploitation of children and adults in El Paso, Texas.

Increased Reward Offered in Mason County Cold Case

February 25, 2021

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure (DPS-Northwest Texas Region)

February 24, 2021

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 915 pounds of assorted THC products Tuesday, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County.

CAPTURED: Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender from Wharton County

February 24, 2021

AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offender Camilo Rodriguez is back in custody after being captured in Mexico on Jan. 30 and extradited to Wharton County, Texas, on Feb. 11.

Suspension of Motor Carrier Vehicle Hours and Service Requirements under Disaster Declaration Regarding Severe Winter Weather

February 18, 2021

Pursuant to Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 390.23 and Chapter 644 of the Texas Transportation Code, Governor Greg Abbott has declared a statewide emergency exists.

DPS Issues Official 60-Day Notification that DL Expiration Waiver Ends in April

February 12, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has officially issued the 60-day notice that the COVID-related waiver on expiration dates for driver licenses (DLs) and identification cards (IDs) ends on April 14, 2021.

DPS Issues Official 60-Day Notification that the Waiver for Certain Private Security Licenses Ends in April

February 12, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has officially issued the 60-day notice that the COVID-related waiver on expiration dates and late fee waivers for Private Security Commissioned Security Officers (CSO) and Personal Protection Officers (PPO) will end on April 14, 2021.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure (DPS-South Texas Region)

February 11, 2021

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 293 pounds of marijuana during a routine traffic stop on Wednesday, Feb. 10, in Webb County.

DPS Recognizes Lifesaving Actions, Awards Purple Heart

February 11, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw presented one Purple Heart and eight Lifesaving Awards to members of the Texas Highway Patrol at the PSC meeting on Thursday, Feb. 11, at the DPS Headquarters in Austin.

DPS Urges Safety on Super Bowl Sunday

February 5, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding the public that while Super Bowl celebrations may look a little different than years past, safety should still be at the forefront of everyone’s minds. All Texans are encouraged to enjoy the biggest sporting event of the year responsibly.

Texarkana Fugitive Added to Texas 10 Most Wanted List

February 4, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Marques Jujuan Thompson, 20, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive List. A cash reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and capture of Thompson.

Revised: Texas DPS Arrests 9 in Gang Investigation (DPS-West Texas Region)

February 4, 2021

EL PASO – Last week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents, in collaboration with Texas Highway Patrol and the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, arrested nine people on state charges resulting from an 11-month investigation.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure (DPS-Northwest Texas Region)

February 3, 2021

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 131 pounds of assorted THC products and two pounds of psilocybin mushrooms Tuesday, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure in Wheeler County (DPS-Northwest Texas Region)

January 29, 2021

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized over 150 pounds of THC wax Wednesday, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Wheeler County.

DPS Seizes Marijuana and THC Candy During Traffic Stop (DPS-West Texas Region)

January 26, 2021

SAN ANGELO – On Monday, January 25, 2021, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers seized 360 grams of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) edibles and 16 pounds of marijuana as a result of a traffic stop in Tom Green County.

DPS Reminder: DL Expiration Waiver Ends in April

January 25, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding the public the waiver on expiration dates for driver licenses (DLs) and identification cards (IDs) ends on April 14, 2021. Customers who need to renew are urged to make an appointment or renew online today.

DPS Make Arrests for On-line Solicitation

January 19, 2021

EL PASO – On January 14-15, 2021, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), conducted an on-line solicitation operation in El Paso, Texas. The goal of the operation was to identify and apprehend people suspected of being involved in human trafficking by using various websites to solicit sexual acts from minors and adults.

DPS Announces Temporary Capitol Closing

January 15, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is announcing the closure of the Texas State Capitol and Capitol Grounds out of an abundance of caution Saturday, January 16 – Wednesday, January 20.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure

January 15, 2021

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized five pounds of heroin and more than 14 pounds of cocaine Wednesday, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Carson County.

DPS Recognizes AMBER Alert Anniversary

January 13, 2021

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will join the country in observing national AMBER Alert Awareness Day on Wednesday, Jan. 13, marking 25 years since 9-year-old Amber Hagerman of Arlington, Texas, was abducted.

Kleberg County Arrest

January 13, 2021

On Tuesday, January 12, 2021 the Texas Rangers arrested Andrew Smith on a charge of Indecency with a Child. Smith, who was about to be suspended, resigned from his position with DPS earlier that day.

Protocol for Opening Day of Legislative Session

January 11, 2021

The Texas Department of Public Safety issued the following statement regarding protocol for opening day of the legislative session.

DPS Announces New Communications Chief

January 8, 2021

AUSTIN – Today, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced Travis Considine as the Assistant Chief of the Media and Communications Office. Considine’s hiring was approved at the December Texas Public Safety Commission meeting. He is stationed at DPS’ Austin headquarters.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure

January 7, 2021

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than 224 pounds of PCP and 11 pounds of cocaine Tuesday, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County.

Winter Weather Expected Across the Lone Star State, Texans Reminded to Make Preparations

December 29, 2020

AUSTIN – With a cold front expected to bring winter weather to parts of the state this week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding everyone to take precautions now to prepare for any freezing rain, sleet, snow, ice or other wintry mix that may impact their area.

DPS to Increase Enforcement for the Holidays

December 21, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced today its annual Christmas and New Year’s holiday traffic enforcement campaigns will kick off on Wednesday, Dec. 23. DPS is reminding drivers to celebrate the holiday season responsibly by practicing safe driving habits and obeying all traffic laws.

Three Promoted to Leadership Positions Within DPS

December 21, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) recently announced the promotion of three employees to leadership positions.

DPS Graduates Three New Canine Handlers

December 17, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) graduated three Troopers and two canines from a nine-week training program on Friday, Dec. 11. These canine teams will join 49 other DPS Detection Teams throughout Texas, within the Texas Highway Patrol Division.

Multijurisdictional Operation Results in the Arrest of Multiple Individuals for Online Solicitation of a Minor

December 16, 2020

AMARILLO- On December 10 and 11, DPS Special Agents, Amarillo Police Department, Hutchinson County and Carson County Sheriff’s Offices, and the Randall County District Attorney’s Office arrested multiple suspects for online solicitation of a minor – sexual conduct.

DPS Announces Temporary Waiver for DL/ID Expirations Ending in April 2021

December 15, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today announced that the waiver on expiration dates for driver licenses (DLs) and identification cards (IDs) ends on April 14, 2021. Customers who need to renew are urged to make an appointment today.

DPS Recognizes Significant Accomplishments at Final PSC Meeting of the Year

December 11, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw presented two Adolph Thomas Distinguished Service Awards, three Medals of Valor, two Director’s Citations and 14 Lifesaving Awards to department personnel at the PSC meeting held on Thursday, Dec. 10, at the Criminal Law Enforcement Auditorium at DPS Headquarters in Austin. In addition, 14 Director’s Awards were also presented to partner agency personnel and private citizens at the meeting.

DPS Reminds Texans to Prepare Ahead of Winter Weather

December 11, 2020

AUSTIN – With another round of winter weather predicted to make its way to parts of Texas this weekend, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants to remind Texans to make preparations now for potentially hazardous weather still to come this season.

DPS Employees Making Holidays Brighter for Foster Youth

December 9, 2020

AUSTIN – Hundreds of toys are now heading to children in Austin and surrounding areas in hopes of making their holidays a bit brighter. This week, employees from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) dropped off toys for 438 children as part of this year’s Gift Drive for Children in Foster Care. The annual drive is put together by the Governor’s Commission for Women and the State Agency Council.

DPS Expanding Hours at Select Driver License Offices

December 9, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is offering extended office hours at participating driver license (DL) offices across the state, beginning in 2021.

Reminder: DPS Seeking Information in Refugio County Cold Case Homicide

December 1, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) continues to seek the public’s help in identifying a woman and solving her 1992 killing. An increased reward of up to $6,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible for her death if the tip is received before the next featured Texas Rangers cold case is announced. A $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest is routinely offered on all cases on the Texas Rangers Unsolved Homicides website.

DPS Seeks Public’s Help in Fatal Hit and Run

November 30, 2020

TYLER – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is asking for the public’s help in the investigation of a fatal hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of a Steven Lynn Chambless on SH 198 near Van Zandt County Road 2435. The crash occurred on Saturday, November 28 at approximately 7:30 p.m.

DPS Increases Enforcement for Thanksgiving Holiday

November 23, 2020

AUSTIN – With Thanksgiving right around the corner, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is encouraging drivers to make safety a top priority this holiday, as increased travel can present additional challenges for drivers.

DPS: DNA Legislation Continues Solving Crimes

November 13, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today announced that House Bill (HB) 1399 assisted in the closure of more than 250 unsolved criminal investigations during its first year of implementation.

DPS Arrests Eight Individuals in Criminal Investigation

November 2, 2020

EL PASO – On Oct. 29, 2020, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), served nine state arrest warrants as part of a long-term and ongoing investigation into alleged criminal activity at several massage parlors in the El Paso area.

DPS Arrest 17 in Criminal Investigation

October 29, 2020

EL PASO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents, in collaboration with local law enforcement partners, have arrested 17 people on state charges and other crimes after a nine-month investigation that initially targeted members and associates of the Interstate Mafia/Artistas Asesinos gang.

DPS Reminds Drivers to Watch for Students Returning to Class this Fall

October 26, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants to remind drivers to continue to be cautious and stay alert in school zones, particularly this school year with students attending classes on varying schedules.

Reminder: Saturday Appointments Still Available at Driver License Offices

October 22, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding Texans that Saturday appointments remain available at many driver license (DL) offices across the state.

Saturday Appointments Still Available at Driver License Offices

October 16, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding Texans that many driver license (DL) offices across the state continue to offer appointments on Saturdays — and appointments remain available at offices statewide.

DPS Awards Highlight Exceptional Efforts

October 15, 2020

AUSTIN - The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw presented two Medals of Valor, one Purple Heart, 10 Lifesaving Awards, the 2020 Top Trooper Awards and a Unit Citation to department personnel. Three Director’s Awards were also presented to partner agency personnel at the PSC awards ceremony held Wednesday at the DPS Tactical Training Center in Florence.

DPS Seeks Public’s Assistance in 1992 Cold Case Killing in Refugio County

October 9, 2020

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is asking for the public’s help identifying a woman homicide victim. It’s hoped that by identifying the woman the perpetrator can be brought to justice.

DPS Opens New Inspection Facility in Seguin

October 8, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today dedicated the most state-of-the-art truck inspection facility in Texas, located on Interstate 10.

DPS Seeks Public’s Help with Finding Hit and Run Suspect

September 29, 2020

TYLER – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers in Gregg County are asking for the public’s help with the investigation of a hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of a pedestrian on Peavine Road, approximately two miles west of Kilgore.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to THC Seizure

September 28, 2020

Waco – A Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Trooper with the help of a Hillsboro PD canine seized approximately 316 grams of THC from a Cadillac passenger car the morning of September 26, 2020 during a traffic stop on I-35 in McLennan County.

Reminder: Waiver Still in Effect for CDLs

September 25, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding the public that the State of Disaster Declaration in response to COVID-19 remains in effect, and includes the waiver of expiration dates for commercial driver licenses (CDL).

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Cash Seizure

September 23, 2020

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than $90,000 in cash Monday, September 21, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County.

Reminder: DPS Seeks Information in 1979 Cold Case

September 23, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants to remind the public it is seeking help in solving the 1979 slaying of Elizabeth Lynne Barclay.

Crime Suppression Joint Operation Results in Multiple Arrests

September 22, 2020

AMARILLO – On September 17 and 18, 2020, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), along with multiple partner agencies arrested forty-eight individuals on various charges in an operation as part of Project Safe Neighborhood.

DPS Announces Saturday Appointments through December

September 21, 2020

AUSTIN – At the direction of Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is announcing Saturday appointment availability through the end of the year.

DPS Celebrates Forensic Science Week

September 18, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is pleased to recognize the hardworking men and women of the DPS Crime Laboratory Service during National Forensic Science Week, which takes place from Sept. 20-26.

DPS Troopers Hit Milestone in Child Rescues

September 16, 2020

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Highway Patrol Troopers this week rescued their 500th child during traffic stops since the implementation of specialized training that began in 2009.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Seizure

September 14, 2020

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 829 pounds of THC vape cartridges and close to 19 pounds of THC wax Saturday, September 13, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Seizure

September 14, 2020

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than 16 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop on Friday, September 11, in Webb County.

DPS Serves Warrants in Multi-Agency Effort

September 10, 2020

EL PASO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), served 13 state search warrants at several massage parlors in the El Paso area where labor and human trafficking was reported. This has been a long-term investigation and is still ongoing.

DPS Adds Saturday Appointments at Select Driver License Offices for September

September 10, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added additional Saturday appointment availability at select driver license (DL) offices for customers needing to renew or replace their Texas DL or ID cards.

DPS Ready for Annual Commercial Vehicle Inspection Push

September 9, 2020

AUSTIN – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers, inspectors and investigators will step up commercial vehicle inspections as part of this year’s International Roadcheck, a 72-hour enforcement effort designed to ensure commercial motor vehicles and drivers are in compliance with federal regulations and increase safety on roadways.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Seizure

September 8, 2020

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 490 pounds of marijuana during a traffic stop on Monday, September 7, in Webb County.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Cash Seizure

September 8, 2020

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized $160,000 in cash Tuesday, September 1, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County.

DPS Releases Crime in Texas Report

September 4, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) released the 2019 Crime in Texas Report today. The report is a collaborative effort and the direct result of the more than 1,200 Texas sheriffs and chiefs of police who participate in the Uniform Crime Reporting program.

Arrest Made in 17-Year-Old Lubbock County Cold Case

September 4, 2020

AUSTIN – After more than 17 years, a man is facing charges in the 2003 slaying of a 21-year-old Lubbock woman. Andy Castillo, 57, of Lubbock, is charged with murder in the case of Cynthia Joann Palacio.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Seizure

September 4, 2020

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than 19 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop on Friday, September 4, in Webb County.

DPS Increases Enforcement for Labor Day Holiday

September 3, 2020

AUSTIN – Whether you’re just driving around town or traveling the open roads this Labor Day, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) encourages all motorists to practice safe driving habits and exercise caution throughout the holiday weekend.

In Case You Missed It: Three Promoted to DPS Leadership Positions

August 28, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced the promotions of three career employees to assistant chief positions. The promotions include Justin Chrane and Ben Urbanczyk to assistant chiefs in the Texas Highway Patrol Division and Katie Conley to the Assistant Chief of the Human Resources Operations Division.

DPS Seeks Information in 1979 Slaying of Dallas Child

August 20, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking leads in the 1979 homicide of 7-year-old Elizabeth Lynne Barclay, and an increased reward of up to $6,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible for her death if the tip is received before the next featured Texas Rangers cold case is announced. A $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest is routinely offered on all cases on the Texas Rangers Unsolved Homicides website.

Public Safety Commission Approves Two Promotions for Assistant Chiefs at Department of Public Safety

August 20, 2020

AUSTIN – Following approval by the Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) on Aug. 14, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced the promotions of Majors Brian Baxter and Floyd T. Goodwin II to assistant chief positions within the department. Both promotions were effective Aug. 15, and both Baxter and Goodwin will be stationed at DPS’ Austin headquarters.

DPS Announces Three Texas Ranger Promotions

August 18, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today announced the promotion of three Texas Rangers to the rank of captain, including the first two female Ranger captains in DPS history and the first-known Ranger in modern history to hold a doctorate degree.

REMINDER: Rewards Being Offered for Information on Suspects Involved in Crimes During Capitol Riots

August 12, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants to remind the public that rewards of up to $1,000 are being offered for information that leads to the arrest of individuals who are still wanted in connection with crimes that occurred during the May riots at the Texas State Capitol.

DPS Makes Additional Arrest for Criminal Activity Committed During May Protest at State Capitol

August 10, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) obtained an arrest warrant for the 14th person wanted in connection with the protests and rioting that occurred at the Texas State Capitol in May. During the riots, numerous officers were assaulted and property was damaged.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Seizure of More Than $26,000 (DPS-South Texas Region)

August 4, 2020

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than $26,000 in cash during a traffic stop on Tuesday, August 4, in Webb County.

Six Additional Arrests Following May Protests at Texas State Capitol

July 30, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) obtained arrest warrants for six individuals who were wanted for crimes – ranging from felony criminal mischief to riot – that were committed during the protests that occurred at the Texas State Capitol on May 30 and May 31. During the riots in May, numerous officers were assaulted and property was damaged.

Reward Offered for Information on Suspects Involved in Capitol Protests

July 21, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is asking for the public’s help in finding 10 people involved in crimes during protests that led to rioting at the Texas State Capitol on May 30, 2020. The 10 unidentified individuals (pictured above) are wanted on misdemeanor and/or felony charges, including riot, criminal mischief (vandalism), assault on a public servant, attempting to take a weapon from a peace officer and interfering with public duties.

DPS Arrests 15 in Criminal Investigation (DPS - West Texas Region)

July 21, 2020

EL PASO – Since last week, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Special Agents, in collaboration with multiple agencies, have arrested fifteen (15) individuals on state charges and other crimes resulting from a yearlong investigation. Additionally, as a result of this ongoing investigation, multiple drug and weapon seizures have occurred.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Seizure (DPS-South Texas Region)

July 20, 2020

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 16 pounds of cocaine and 14 pounds of heroin during a routine traffic stop on Tuesday, July 21, in Webb County.

DPS Seeks Public’s Help with Finding Hit and Run Suspect (DPS-North Texas Region)

July 20, 2020

TYLER – DPS Troopers in Upshur County are asking for the public’s help in the investigation of a hit-and-run crash on July 17, 2020, at 11:22 a.m., which resulted in the death of a motorist on US 271 North, three miles north of Gilmer.

ICYMI: Texas DPS Commissions 77 New Troopers at Graduation Ceremony

July 20, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) commissioned 77 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from its A-2020 recruit class during a graduation ceremony held on Friday, July 17. These new Troopers join the ranks of thousands of commissioned DPS officers across the state.

DPS Makes Additional Arrests in Connection with Rioting and Assault During the Capitol Protests

July 16, 2020

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has made two additional arrests in connection with rioting, vandalism and an assault that occurred during protests near the Texas State Capitol back in May.

DPS Reminds Texans to Take Extra Safety Precautions as Summer Heat Continues to Blaze Across the State

July 13, 2020

AUSTIN – As the dog days of summer continue and temperatures across the state top triple digits, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants to remind all Texans to take extra safety precautions, as the heat can pose an increased danger for at-risk populations — including children and the elderly — particularly in vehicles.

DPS Expands DL Service Offerings, Now Accepting Appointments for Renewals and Replacements in Offices

July 6, 2020

AUSTIN - As the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) continues with the phased reopening of driver license (DL) offices, the department is pleased to announce the expansion of in-person services across the state. This includes offering renewal and replacement appointments, as well as Saturday appointments for these services at select offices.

DPS Arrests Two More Suspects for Crimes Related to Capitol Protests

July 5, 2020

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) arrested two more suspects in connection with rioting and vandalism that occurred during protests near the Texas State Capitol in May.........................

DPS Seeks Public’s Help with Finding Hit and Run Suspect

July 5, 2020

GARLAND – DPS Troopers in Collin County are asking for the public’s help in the investigation of a hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of a pedestrian on East Lucas Branch Road (FM 3286) in Branch, approximately five miles south of Princeton. The crash occurred on July 5, 2020, around 12:30 a.m.

DPS Encourages Texans to Make Safety on the Roads a Priority this Fourth of July

July 2, 2020

AUSTIN The Texas Department of Public Safetys (DPS) annual July Fourth holiday traffic operations Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) and Operation Holiday.........................

DPS Extends Hours at Four Driver License Offices as Part of Pilot Program

June 30, 2020

AUSTIN Beginning today, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will offer extended hours until 9 p.m., Monday through Friday, at four driver license (DL) offices as a part of a pilot program that will run from .........................

DPS Arrests Suspects in Austin for Felony and Misdemeanor Crimes Related to the Capitol Protests

June 28, 2020

AUSTIN - On Saturday, June 27, 2020, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) executed arrest warrants for two suspects: Darius Deshawn Berkley, 22, of Austin, Texas, who was arrested for rioting.........................

DPS Arrests Suspect in Austin for Felony Criminal Mischief, Damage Caused to State Capitol

June 24, 2020

AUSTIN - On Tuesday, June 23, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) arrested a suspect in connection with the vandalism and damage caused to the Texas State Capitol during a protest.........................

DPS Seeks Information in 1995 Slaying of Beloved Beaumont Teacher

June 17, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking information in the 1995 cold case homicide of Mary Catherine Edwards.

DPS Reminds Drivers to Put Safety First this Memorial Day

May 21, 2020

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) encourages all Texans to practice safe driving habits this Memorial Day weekend.........................

Driver License Offices to Reopen by Appointment Only with Limited Services, Additional Safety Measures Enacted

May 20, 2020

AUSTIN - On Tuesday, May 26, at the direction of Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will begin reopening driver license (DL) offices by appointment only and with limited services.........................

DPS Reminds Texans to Properly Secure Children during Child Safety Seat Technician Month

May 14, 2020

HOUSTON – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is taking this opportunity during Child Safety Seat Technician month to remind all motorists about the importance of properly securing a child in a safety seat. Texas law requires children under the age of 8 to be secured by a child safety seat system unles

Alternative Issuance Process for Texas Learner License, Commercial Learner Permit Knowledge Tests

May 4, 2020

AUSTIN - Last week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) began offering an alternative issuance process for Texas learner license holders, as well as alternatives for individuals seeking a commercial learner permit (CLP) or .........................

DPS Issues Statement on Death of Retired DPS Colonel James B. Adams

April 25, 2020

AUSTIN - Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw issued the following statement on the death of former DPS Director James B. Adams.........................

DPS Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Seizure

April 21, 2020

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than 290 pounds of Marihuana during a traffic stop on Monday, April 20, in La Salle County. At approximately 11:57 pm, a DPS trooper was notified by DPS Communications that a Peterbilt truck tractor semi-trailer had disregarded the US Border Patr

DPS Seeks Leads in 1985 Cold Case Death of Mexia Woman

April 13, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety is seeking information and asking for the public’s help in solving the 1985 cold case homicide of Dorothy Estep.

ICYMI: In Light of Federal Guidelines for Commercial Drivers, DPS Extends Deadline for CDL Holders to Submit Medical Certificates

April 9, 2020

AUSTIN - In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has suspended the automatic downgrade of commercial driver licenses (CDL) by providing CDL holders with an extension for the medical certificates .........................

Additional Locations Added to Quarantine Mandates for Air Travelers Coming into Texas

March 30, 2020

AUSTIN - In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to prevent further spread into the state of Texas from hotspot areas, Governor Greg Abbott has tasked the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) with enforcing two Executive Orders.........................

Travel Form, Instructions Available Online for Travelers Coming to Texas who are Subject to Comply with Governor's Mandated 14-Day Self-Quarantine

March 26, 2020

AUSTIN - In response to Governor Abbott's Executive Order, DPS has added the required travel form and terms of self-quarantine to our website for individuals traveling to Texas.........................

DPS Limits Public Access to Buildings Due to COVID-19, Business Operations Still Remain Open

March 25, 2020

AUSTIN - In response to COVID-19, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is limiting public access to department facilities to protect the public and our employees, promote social distancing and do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19.........................

DPS Issues Update on Last Week's Release Regarding Employee Who Tested Positive for COVID-19

March 22, 2020

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) issued the following statement as an update on information released last week regarding an employee who tested positive for COVID-19.........................

DPS Coordinates with Public Health Authorities as Two Employees Test Positive for COVID-19

March 18, 2020

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reporting to the Public Health Authorities that two DPS employees have tested positive for COVID-19.........................

Driver License (DL) Expiration Dates Extended, DL Offices Closed in Light of COVID-19 Outbreak

March 18, 2020

AUSTIN - At the direction of Governor Greg Abbott and in light of the governor's State of Disaster Declaration related to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has been directed to extend the expiration date of Texas identification cards (ID), driver licenses (DL), commercial DLs (CDL) and election identification certificates (EIC).........................

DPS Takes Preventative Measures Against COVID-19, Encourages Texans to do the Same

March 11, 2020

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is taking preventative measures against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by implementing additional sanitation practices at driver license (DL) offices and issuing guidance to.........................

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Seizure of More Than $10,000

March 5, 2020

LAREDO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than $10,000 in currency during a traffic stop Tuesday, March 3, 2020 in Webb County. A DPS Trooper stopped the driver of a black Ford F-150 on Interstate Highway 35 for a traffic violation. The Trooper subsequently discovered a bundle of U.

DPS Conducts Commercial Vehicle Safety Operation

March 1, 2020

HOUSTON – This month, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase enforcement efforts to reduce crashes involving commercial motor vehicles. The operation will also target aggressive and reckless drivers interacting near the vehicles. Troopers and commercial motor vehicle inspectors will particip

Texas Increases Security Features, Unveils New Design for Driver License/ID and License to Carry Cards

February 26, 2020

AUSTIN - Starting this week, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) began issuing the newly designed Texas driver licenses (DL), identification (ID) cards and license to carry (LTC) cards to all Texans.........................

Texas Public Safety Commission Approves Staff Changes within DPS

February 13, 2020

AUSTIN - At Thursday's regularly scheduled Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) meeting, commissioners unanimously approved several promotions upon the recommendation of the Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steven McCraw.........................

DPS Seeks Leads in 1994 Death of Corpus Christi Woman

February 11, 2020

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking leads in the October 1994 homicide of Laura Warren.

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure

January 30, 2020

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 411 pounds of THC products Wednesday, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County. At approximately 2:17 p.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a 2020 Ford Expedition traveling east on I-40 near Vega, for a traffic violation. A DPS canine

Krystal Jean Baker Act Aids Law Enforcement in More Quickly Connecting Missing Links in Unsolved Cases

January 29, 2020

AUSTIN - Texas law enforcement agencies have identified suspects in more than 45 unsolved cases thanks in part to the implementation of House Bill (HB) 1399, also known as the Krystal Jean Baker Act.........................

Houston Gessner Mega Center Parking Lot Set for Renovation

January 28, 2020

HOUSTON – Beginning this Friday, Jan. 31, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will begin upgrading the parking lot of the Houston Gessner Mega Center, located at 12220 South Gessner Houston, TX 77071. The goal of this upgrade is to better serve our customers by expanding the total number of parking spaces at t

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure

January 23, 2020

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized over 204 pounds of THC products Wednesday, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Carson County. At approximately 11:14 a.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a 2019 Chevrolet Suburban traveling east on I-40 near Conway, for a traffic violation.

Texas DPS Rescues Three Missing and Endangered Children

January 15, 2020

EL PASO – January 9th 2020, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and multiple agencies worked together to locate and ultimately rescue four children who were kidnapped and taken to Mexico. The four children, five months, one, two, and three years of age, were returned to the United States after being taken to Me

DPS Releases Mass Attacks, Domestic Terrorism Reports

January 6, 2020

AUSTIN - At the direction of Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) produced two state intelligence assessments on critical threats to Texas.........................

DPS Sponsors Families for Christmas

December 20, 2019

LUBBOCK – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Northwest Texas Region sponsored two families for Christmas this year. DPS Troopers and employees shopped, wrapped gifts and delivered presents to the families who live in Lubbock and Buffalo Gap. DPS offices in Lub

DPS Increases Enforcement Efforts to Help Keep Texas Roads and Drivers Safe This Holiday

December 19, 2019

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants to remind all Texans to do their part to celebrate the holiday season responsibly by obeying traffic laws, practicing safe driving habits and .........................

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure

December 19, 2019

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 101 pounds of marijuana Wednesday, December 18, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Carson County. At approximately 2:59 p.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado traveling east on I-40 near Conway, for a traf

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug and Cash Seizure

December 19, 2019

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 106 pounds of marijuana, more than four pounds of THC wax and $7,002 in cash Tuesday, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County. At approximately 12:49 p.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu traveling

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure

December 15, 2019

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 43 pounds of methamphetamine Thursday, Dec. 12, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Carson County. At approximately 12:52 p.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a 2002 GMC Denali traveling east on I-40 near Conway, for a traffic violation. The Troo

DPS Graduates Five New Canine Teams

December 12, 2019

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) graduated five Troopers and five canines from an nine-week training program.........................

DPS Traffic Stop Leads to Marijuana Seizure

December 8, 2019

AMARILLO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized 3,350 pounds of marijuana Thursday, December 5, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Carson County. At approximately 5:51 p.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a 2016 Ford U-Haul traveling east on I-40 near Conway, for a traffic violation. Th