Explore every episode of the podcast TMPA- Texas Minute

Remembering Trooper Sergio Romero — TMPA joins the Texas law enforcement community in mourning the loss of Texas DPS Trooper Sergio Romero, who was killed in the line of duty near Childress in a vehicle accident. Trooper Romero leaves behind his wife, two young children, and an entire law enforcement family grieving an unimaginable loss. TMPA stands with his loved ones, his fellow Troopers, and the Texas Department of Public Safety as they honor his service and sacrifice.

• Dilley Leadership Under Fire — According to reporting from the Frio-Nueces Current, City of Dilley City Administrator Yolanda Moran is facing growing pressure from residents and the police department over serious concerns involving interference, manpower, officer safety, morale, and departmental authority. When officers are forced to publicly sound the alarm, city leaders should listen. TMPA will always stand with officers who are fighting to protect their communities under difficult circumstances.

• TMPA/TXFOP Conference Coming Soon — The TMPA and Texas FOP Joint Conference is set for July 24 through July 26, bringing together law enforcement leaders, members, vendors, sponsors, and supporters from across Texas. This conference is about training, fellowship, recognition, unity, and one shared mission: strengthening Texas law enforcement. From critical conversations to the Warrior Awards, TMPA and TXFOP remain committed to standing together for the men and women who serve this state.

• Congratulations, Ranger Irwin — TMPA proudly congratulates longtime member Texas DPS Ranger Sharee Irwin for being named the Alamo Area Council of Governments Officer of the Year. This recognition reflects a career built on service, sacrifice, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is right. Ranger Irwin represents the very best of Texas law enforcement, and TMPA was honored to have Field Representative Joey Sepulveda attend and celebrate this well-deserved recognition.

• TMPA Showed Up in Dilley — TMPA Field Services Supervisor Mike Gomez attended the Dilley City Council meeting to stand with our members and address serious concerns involving city administration and leadership failures. Instead of listening, City Manager Yolanda Moran confronted him and reportedly threatened an employee with disciplinary action for being outspoken. TMPA will not sit back while city hall dysfunction impacts the men and women serving the community. When our members need a voice, we show up.

• Holding the Line in Collin County — TMPA recognizes the McKinney Police Department, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office, and every law enforcement professional who helped manage the highly emotional environment surrounding the Karmelo Anthony trial. While others argued, protested, grieved, and demanded answers, officers and deputies were tasked with protecting the courthouse, the public, and the judicial process. TMPA will not try the case on social media, but we will always recognize the men and women who hold the line with professionalism, restraint, and courage.

• History Made in Morris County — Lone Star Police Corporal Athziry Flores made history as the first certified tactical female officer ever in Morris County after attending and passing SWAT class. Her accomplishment represents grit, discipline, and the courage to step into one of the toughest challenges in law enforcement. TMPA proudly recognizes Corporal Flores for breaking a barrier, raising the standard, and showing the next generation of officers what is possible.

• Justice for Officer Jacob Candanoza — Darrian Cortez Johnson will spend the rest of his life behind bars after pleading guilty to the capital murder of Terrell Police Officer Jacob Candanoza. Officer Candanoza was only 28 years old, a husband, father, son, and Texas law enforcement officer murdered while serving his community. No sentence can bring him home, but justice was served, and Texas will not forget one of its fallen.

• TMPA Fights for Injured Officers — TMPA’s legislative team testified Thursday before the Committee on Homeland Security, Public Safety and Veterans’ Affairs alongside Wood County Sergeant Jaclyn Skinner, who was shot four times on February 15, 2026. Her fight did not end when the gunfire stopped, as she then faced delays, denied referrals, withheld medical equipment, and roadblocks through the workers’ comp system. TMPA is pushing for real accountability and reform, and Sergeant Skinner’s story will be featured next week on the Blue Grit Podcast.

• Blue Grit Podcast: Social Media Mobs — The newest episode of the Blue Grit Podcast takes on a growing problem in law enforcement: online mobs forming before the facts are known. TMPA Executive Director Kevin Lawrence, Field Representative Leighton Guarnere, Regional Attorney Amanda Bolin, and Galveston Municipal Police Association President Anthony Rogers break down recent incidents in Galveston and Arp, how false narratives spread, and why associations must respond quickly, aggressively, and factually when members are under attack.

• Austin Shootings and Flock Cameras — After a violent shooting spree across Austin involving stolen vehicles and multiple crime scenes, law enforcement leaders said license plate reader technology could have helped locate the suspects faster. Neighboring agencies using Flock cameras helped identify a stolen vehicle connected to the suspects, showing once again that officers need proven crime-fighting tools, not political roadblocks, when violent offenders are putting innocent lives at risk. 

• Texas City Police Chief Out — Texas City Police Chief Landis Cravens is out, marking a major turning point for Texas City officers. TMPA stood shoulder to shoulder with the Texas City Municipal Police Association through a long fight for better leadership, stronger support, and real accountability inside the department. This change gives officers and the community a chance to move forward with leadership that respects the men and women behind the badge.

• National Police Week — TMPA sent a team to Washington, D.C. to stand with the families, survivors, and agencies honoring Texas officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. Executive Director Kevin Lawrence had the solemn honor of reading the Texas names being added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial Wall during the annual Candlelight Vigil. TMPA will always show up for the fallen, their families, and the officers still carrying the mission forward.

• Texas Repeat Offender Task Force — DPS and Dallas Police are joining forces as part of the expanded Texas Repeat Offender Task Force, targeting violent repeat criminals who continue cycling through the justice system. TMPA supports every effort that gives law enforcement the tools, resources, and backing needed to get dangerous offenders off Texas streets and keep communities safe.

• Texas City New Mayor Sworn In — A new chapter has officially begun in Texas City after Abel Garza Jr. was sworn in as mayor following the election defeat of former Mayor Dedrick Johnson. For Texas City officers who endured years of hostile city leadership, this change brings a long-awaited glimmer of hope for better communication, stronger support, and real respect for the men and women serving that community.

• Blue Grit Podcast: “A Tyrant Falls and Officers Rise” — TMPA Field Representative Leighton Guarnere joins the Blue Grit Podcast to break down two major wins for Texas law enforcement. Leighton discusses the Texas City mayoral election defeat of Dedrick Johnson and what it could mean for officers who have faced hostile city leadership. He also highlights Morgan’s Point collective bargaining victory, where the community rallied behind its police department and helped strengthen officers’ rights and protections.

• Williamson County Civil Service Update — On Thursday, TMPA stood with the Williamson County Deputies Association during the Civil Service Commission meeting regarding proposed amendments to the civil service rules. TMPA Regional Attorney Robert McCabe addressed the commission and requested that multiple items be tabled for further review, which did happen. TMPA thanks the Civil Service Commission for their willingness to work with us and remains committed to supporting our members and association leadership.

• I-35 Multicounty Pursuit — A dangerous pursuit involving a trash truck began in New Braunfels and ended in Austin after authorities say the driver refused to stop, struck another vehicle, and continued down I-35 on flat tires. Multiple agencies assisted before the truck crashed, four people were injured, and the driver was arrested on multiple charges. The incident is another reminder of how quickly law enforcement can be pulled into dangerous, unpredictable situations across multiple jurisdictions.

• National Police Week — Next week begins National Police Week in Washington, D.C., where officers, families, survivors, and agencies from across the nation will gather to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. TMPA stands with the families of the fallen and every officer who continues to serve their community with courage.

• Temple Police Incident — Temple officers were dispatched to a dangerous and unpredictable scene involving a man police say may have ingested PCP. That crisis was not created by law enforcement. It was created by illegal narcotics, interference, and bad decisions. TMPA stands with our members and rejects any attempt to twist this into another anti police narrative.

• Honoring Texas’ Fallen Officers — This past Sunday in Austin, honor guards, officers, families, and survivors gathered to remember the Texas officers who paid the ultimate sacrifice. TMPA thanks every honor guard, officer, agency, and survivor who traveled to stand in respect for the fallen. The ceremony can be viewed on the TMPA Facebook page.

• Fort Worth CRU Member Shot — A Fort Worth Police Civilian Response Unit member was shot while responding to a burglary call in what appears to be an ambush-style attack. The CRU member is reported to be in stable condition. TMPA stands firmly with the injured member, the Fort Worth Police Department, and every officer working to bring this suspect to justice.

This week on The Texas Minute:

• TMPA and Texas Fraternal Order of Police Conference — Texas law enforcement, this is your conference. July 24–26 in Dallas, the joint TMPA and FOP Conference brings together the strongest voices in policing for real training, real conversations, and real leadership. If you wear the badge, you need to be in that room. Registration is open now — don’t wait until it’s too late.

• Blue Grit Podcast featuring Gabriel Ortiz — A powerful new episode is live with Texas DPS Regional Director Gabriel Ortiz. A 25-year veteran who rose through the ranks, Ortiz shares his journey of service — and the personal reality of a brother who chose a different path that ended in violence. It’s raw, real, and a reminder of the choices that define a life.

• Politics vs Policing — TMPA leadership stood alongside top legal minds at the Blue Line Lawyer Institute Use of Force Forum, led by Lance LoRusso. As officers across the country face increasing scrutiny for doing their job, TMPA remains focused on preparation, training, and defense. When the pressure rises, we don’t back down — we stand ready to protect those who serve.

This week on The Texas Minute:

• Telecommunicators Week — Across Texas, we recognize the men and women behind the headset. The calm voice in chaos. Before the sirens and lights, they are the first to answer the call—guiding officers, gathering critical information, and holding it all together when seconds matter most. Texas law enforcement is stronger because of them.

• New leadership in Missouri City — Troy Finner has been named Chief of the Missouri City Police Department. With more than 30 years in law enforcement and experience leading the Houston Police Department, Finner brings proven leadership and a deep understanding of the profession. A seasoned leader stepping into a role that demands experience and vision.

• Dallas Police loss — Our thoughts are with the Dallas Police Department following the passing of Chris Blow, who died off duty after a sudden medical emergency while traveling overseas to be with family. When one department hurts, we all feel it. Texas law enforcement stands united in support of his family and fellow officers.

This week on The Texas Minute:

• Travis County under scrutiny — New allegations involving District Attorney José Garza’s office are raising serious concerns. In Blue Grit Podcast Episode 131 “Court of Inquiry,” Regional Attorney Doug O’Connell outlines claims of withheld evidence, undisclosed negotiations, and potential Brady and Michael Morton Act violations tied to cases against Austin Police Officers. A motion to dismiss has been filed, and a court of inquiry is now underway. This isn’t just about Austin — it’s about trust in the justice system.

• Johnson County shootout — A Johnson County Deputy is recovering after being injured during a dangerous exchange of gunfire. Deputies responded to serve a warrant, but after no contact, a fire broke out at the residence. When first responders arrived, they were met with gunfire. Deputies engaged, and one was struck by shrapnel from a ballistic shield. All officers made it home—a powerful reminder of the risks they face every day.

• Houston ordinance raises concerns — Houston City Council passed a revised immigration ordinance defining how officers interact with federal agents. But policies like this risk creating confusion in already high-risk situations. Law enforcement needs clarity and support — not political barriers that complicate coordination and decision-making in the field. When officers are second-guessed, public safety is put at risk.

This week on The Texas Minute:

• Polk County pressure tactics exposed — After being invited to the Blue Grit Podcast, Judge Sydney Murphy escalated the situation with a direct call to TMPA Field Representative Robby Campbell, insinuating that the timing of the episode could impact how she sets the Sheriff’s Office budget. That kind of political pressure tied to public safety funding should concern every Texan. She has now refused to participate following another candidate’s episode release. The situation in Polk County continues — and our members deserve leadership that puts law enforcement first.

• San Juan contract negotiations underway — TMPA Field Representative JP Rodriguez, Director Prime Rodriguez, and Regional Attorney David Willis met with the San Juan Police Association to prepare for upcoming contract negotiations. This is what real support looks like — experienced representation and boots on the ground when it matters most. If your association is heading into negotiations, TMPA is ready to stand with you.

• Life sentence in Tarrant County — A Tarrant County jury sentenced the woman responsible for the death of Fort Worth PD Sgt. Billy Randolph to life in prison. Sgt. Randolph was killed in the line of duty serving his community. Justice has been delivered — but the sacrifice will never be forgotten.

• Workers comp fight continues — For multiple legislative sessions, TMPA has worked alongside State Representative Jared Patterson to address failures in the workers compensation system impacting first responders. A recent CBS News Texas investigation out of Arlington highlighted these issues, showing how injured officers are being denied care or forced to use personal time. TMPA will continue working with Rep. Patterson to make this a top priority next session.

This week on The Texas Minute:

• Travis County DA under scrutiny — Growing concerns continue to surround José Garza and the impact his decisions are having on law enforcement across Central Texas. A Court of Inquiry filed by the law offices of Doug O’Connell is now raising serious questions about withheld evidence, due process, and whether justice is being applied fairly. This is about accountability, transparency, and restoring trust in the system.

• Hurst incident sparks narrative clash — Civil rights attorney Lee Merritt pushed new claims following the arrest of Tanisha Thompson, despite known facts. A sparsely attended press conference at Hurst City Hall told its own story. TMPA stood firmly alongside the Hurst Police Department and Hurst Police Association — when our members are targeted, we hold the line.

• Conroe officers secure pay win — The Conroe Police Officers Association achieved a major pay increase for its officers, with support from TMPA Regional Attorney Greg Cagle. A clear reminder that when law enforcement stands united, results follow.

• Blue Grit Podcast preview — This week’s episode features Polk County Judge candidate Larry Pfeil in a raw conversation about leadership, accountability, and prioritizing public safety at the county level.

• TMPA and TXFOP Joint Conference — July 24 through 26 at the Hyatt Regency in Dallas. Law enforcement leaders from across Texas will be in the room. Don’t miss it.

This week on The Texas Minute:

• A&E series highlights Texas ICAC work — Predator Hunters premieres on A&E featuring Garland Police Detective and TMPA member Tony Godwin and the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The series takes viewers inside real investigations targeting online predators exploiting children and highlights the relentless work Texas investigators do to protect kids.

• TMPA mourns Chief Brian Rusk — TMPA joins the Hitchcock ISD and Galveston County communities in mourning the loss of Hitchcock ISD Police Chief Brian Rusk. Chief Rusk was known as a protector of students and a mentor to officers. His passing is a reminder that the weight of this profession is real and officers should never face those struggles alone.

• $3.4 million meth seizure in South Texas — A Texas DPS Trooper stopped nearly 2,000 pounds of methamphetamine during an Operation Lone Star traffic stop in Live Oak County. The drugs, worth an estimated $3.4 million, were hidden inside a false floor of a semi trailer. One suspect is now facing a first degree felony.

• Wichita Falls officers step up for local kids — Officers training at the Wichita Falls Police Department Training Center noticed children playing basketball with a makeshift goal. Training staff, community services officers, and recruits from the 81st Police Academy came together to buy the kids a brand new basketball goal. A small moment that shows the side of policing most people rarely see.

This week on The Texas Minute:

• Austin terror attack on 6th Street — TMPA sends prayers to the victims and recognizes the swift response of Austin Police officers who stopped the suspect and prevented further loss of life. Travis County DA Jose Garza made the right call by not presenting the case to a grand jury. The officers involved are American heroes.

• Texas elections held March 3 — statewide and congressional races concluded across Texas. TMPA congratulates the winners and looks forward to working with leaders who support Texas law enforcement.

• Temple Police Association joins TMPA — Field Representative David Kurylowicz is already assisting Temple leadership during contract negotiations. TMPA’s strength is helping local associations grow while keeping decisions local.

• Houston Rodeo underway — more than 2 million people will attend the largest livestock show and rodeo in the world. Thousands of Texas peace officers from multiple agencies are working nonstop to keep Texans safe.

• Blue Grit Podcast Episode 129 — “Minneapolis: The Story They Won’t Tell.” Minneapolis FOP spokesperson Kevin Rofidal joins Force Science experts Brian Baxter and Vaughn Cline to break down the situation in Minneapolis. Listen now on all major podcast platforms.

This week on The Texas Minute:

• Ector County Law Enforcement Association officially joins TMPA after meeting with Field Rep Darrell Losoya.
• TXDPS Trooper shot in Big Spring — career criminal David Morales arrested and tied to the shooting. Trooper is now released and recovering.
• Honoring Deputy Kenneth Lewis (Fort Bend County) — killed while assisting a stranded motorist on I-10 while in full uniform.
• Setting the record straight:
  • School Marshals — Covered
  • ISD Police — Covered
  • Deputy Sheriffs  or anyone under a Sheriff or Police Chief — Covered
  • Off-duty incidents within course & scope — Covered
  • Spousal coverage — TMPA delivered it first
  • Bottom line: Real protection. Real attorneys. Real results. TMPA.

This week on The Texas Minute:
Blue Grit Podcast Episode #128, “Murphy’s Law,” drops as TMPA Regional Attorney Lee Hon and Field Representative Robby Campbell break down the latest out of Polk County and their dealings with County Judge Sydney Murphy.

TMPA Directors and staff hit the road across Texas this week in support of Senator John Cornyn—reminding everyone to get out and vote for those who stand with law enforcement. Visit TMPA.org for our full list of endorsed candidates.

Meanwhile, Travis County DA José Garza is back in the headlines after announcing he will seek a retrial of former Austin officer Daniel Sanchez. We’re monitoring developments and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

A quick statewide rundown of what’s impacting Texas law enforcement.

This week on The Texas Minute:
Polk County politics heat up, major Brady law reforms advance at the Capitol, Texas City faces internal turmoil, and TMPA supports hundreds of officers at Galveston Mardi Gras. A fast, statewide rundown of what’s impacting Texas law enforcement.