Freeman Martin, a senior official with over 30 years of experience in the department, is set to become the new director of the DPS. He will be taking over from the current director, Steve McCraw, who is retiring next month.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), which is responsible for overseeing the DPS, appointed Martin for the position on November 20. He will assume the role of director on December 1.
“I cannot think of a more suitable candidate than Freeman Martin to lead this department at this time,” stated PSC chair Steven Mach. “His unparalleled understanding of the department, its workings, and the needs of its people make him the perfect choice. I am confident that he will provide unwavering leadership, ensuring a bright future for the agency and the people of Texas.” Martin has been appointed less than three months after McCraw.
According to a report from The Public Safety Commission on August 23, McCraw has been the leader of the agency for 15 years and has recently gained attention.
McCraw is set to retire on November 30, as announced by the DPS. Martin, on the other hand, will assume the position of director on December 1. A special ceremony will be held in Austin on December 2 to swear him in.
Martin began his career with the DPS in 1990, initially serving as a highway patrol trooper in Chambers County, located east of Houston. He then transitioned to the role of a narcotics service officer before joining the esteemed Texas Rangers. In 2014, Martin was appointed as the regional commander of the department’s Central Texas region, and in 2018, he was honored with the title of deputy director, making him the second-in-command to McCraw.
According to the DPS, he will become the department’s first Texas Ranger to assume leadership.
Martin was responsible for overseeing the agency’s involvement in Gov. Greg Abbott’s border security initiative.
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Martin, a proud Texan, was born and raised in New Deal, a charming town located just outside Lubbock.
The Texas Department of Public Safety takes on a range of responsibilities to ensure the safety and security of the state. They actively patrol Texas highways and the state Capitol, providing a visible presence to deter crime and maintain order. In addition, DPS stations troops at the border, working to protect the state from external threats.
They also play a role in issuing driver’s licenses and other state identification, ensuring that individuals meet the necessary requirements to operate vehicles and access certain services. Collaboration is key for the DPS, as they work closely with local and federal law enforcement agencies to share information, coordinate efforts, and effectively address crime and public safety concerns.
Martin will be responsible for overseeing a team of more than 11,000 employees and effectively managing a budget that frequently surpasses $2 billion every two years.
“I am deeply grateful and honored to have been entrusted with the leadership of this agency that I hold dear,” stated Martin. “Leading this organization is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am committed to fulfilling our mission of protecting and serving the people of Texas. I express my heartfelt gratitude to the Public Safety Commission and the Governor for their confidence in me.”
