Governor Greg Abbott attended the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas (CLEAT) annual convention, where he presented the Texas Officer of the Year Awards and recognized law enforcement officers for their service in maintaining public safety across the state.
“Public safety starts with our law enforcement,” said Governor Abbott. “You cannot go to work, you cannot go to school, you cannot go shopping, you cannot live in your community and feel safe without the support of law enforcement to ensure that safety. You don’t get thanked enough for your bravery, for your valor, and what you do for our state. I am grateful for you and your work to keep our communities safe. We look forward to working with you to achieve our joint mission, and that is to make Texas safer every single day.”
Governor Abbott was joined at the event by CLEAT President Scott Leeton, CLEAT Executive Director Robert Leonard, CLEAT Deputy Executive Director Jennifer Szimanski, award recipients, and other leaders from law enforcement.
During his remarks at the ceremony, Governor Abbott emphasized the essential function that law enforcement fulfills in protecting residents and communities throughout Texas. He referenced actions taken during the 89th Legislative Session, noting that Texas enacted a significant bail reform package aimed at keeping dangerous individuals off the streets. The Governor also expressed appreciation for all Texas law enforcement officers’ dedication and commitment.
The following officers were recognized as 2025 recipients of the Texas Officer of the Year Awards: Jessica Caro (El Paso Police Department), Jason Davis (La Marque Police Department), Ilse Gerardo (Dallas Police Department), Suracy Gonzalez (El Paso County Sheriff’s Office), Michael Gutierrez (McAllen Police Department), Harvey Richard “Dick” Hill (Arlington Police Department), Scott Leeton (Corpus Christi Police Department), Hayden McAdams (Potter County Sheriff’s Office), Ashton Moss (Vidor Police Department), Michael Nelson (Tarrant County Sheriff’s Department), Daniel Pollard (Bexar County Sheriff’s Office), Jairo Sanchez (San Antonio Police Department), Michael Stephenson (Vidor Police Department), Frank Tapia (San Antonio Police Department), and Ben Wright (Fort Worth Police Department).
Additional photos from the event are expected to be made available later.
