Investigation Launched into Missing Property at Houston Police Substation
In a recent development, one of the newly-promoted Houston police assistant chiefs, Adrian Rodriguez, is now under investigation after property valued at $25,000 went missing from a police substation in Kingwood. The incident has raised concerns about proper police procedures and the handling of department assets.
Rodriguez, who was promoted in April following the demotions resulting from HPD’s suspended case scandal, was last assigned as the commander at the Kingwood substation on Rustic Woods Drive. The missing property in question consists of security gates that were replaced with newer ones last November. The old gates were left in a grassy area for several months before disappearing over the weekend of March 23rd.
According to an Internal Affairs Division (IAD) report obtained by ABC13, Rodriguez had allegedly asked a liaison with the City of Houston General Services Department for permission to take the property, stating that he wanted to use them in his personal ditch at home. This raises questions about his intentions and the appropriateness of removing department property for personal use.
ABC13 also requested surveillance video from HPD for the weekend when the gates went missing, but their request was denied and referred to the Texas Attorney General’s Office for a decision. This indicates that there is an ongoing investigation into the matter, as confirmed by the department in a referral letter stating that there is an open investigation into alleged improper police procedure by a police officer.
The City of Houston has specific procedures in place for the disposal of excess, obsolete, worn, or scrap property, which must be approved and sent to a city warehouse for auction. However, it seems that these procedures may not have been followed in this case. It was only after ABC13 requested records on the whereabouts of the discarded gates that a police report was filed, three months after their removal. The report categorizes the incident as a theft, with an estimated value of $25,000.
Chief Rodriguez, due to the ongoing investigation, is not allowed to comment on the matter, following department policy. However, the available portion of the IAD report sheds more light on the situation. The liaison who gave Rodriguez permission stated that he believed he was allowing him to take smaller broken pieces of gate material that should have already been disposed of by the contractor. He claims he did not know they were entire gate panels, indicating a possible miscommunication or misunderstanding.
The Houston Police Officers’ Union (HPOU) has referred to the investigation as minor, downplaying its significance. However, the fact that an investigation is underway raises concerns about proper conduct and adherence to department procedures.
It is important for law enforcement agencies to maintain transparency and accountability in handling department assets. The public’s trust and confidence in the police force depend on it. Incidents like these can undermine public perception and erode trust, leading to questions about the overall integrity of the department.
As the investigation continues, it is essential for the Houston Police Department to address any shortcomings in their asset disposal procedures and ensure that all officers are aware of and adhere to the proper protocols. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strict standards and oversight when it comes to handling department property.
In conclusion, the investigation into the missing property at the Houston police substation highlights the need for accountability and adherence to proper police procedures. The incident raises questions about the actions and intentions of Assistant Chief Adrian Rodriguez and emphasizes the importance of transparency and trust within law enforcement agencies. As the investigation progresses, it is crucial for the Houston Police Department to address any deficiencies in their asset disposal protocols and take appropriate action to maintain public confidence in their operations.
