Houston Police Chief Troy Finner has admitted that the use of the HPD code on suspended incident reports was inappropriate and has apologized to victims, families, and citizens for the department’s actions. Finner stated that the code should have never been used and will not be used again in the future.
The discovery that over a quarter of a million incident reports were suspended due to a lack of personnel has prompted an expanded review of the Houston Police Department’s divisions. Finner clarified that the number refers to incident reports and not the number of investigated cases. He explained that some incident reports, such as those involving non-violent crimes or civil and insurance matters, were not assigned to investigators.
However, the code’s use in sexual assault incidents and other violent crimes is particularly concerning. Finner emphasized that it should have never been assigned to these types of cases. He also highlighted that the statute of limitations for adult sex incidents dating back to 2016 should not expire, as the statute for sexual assaults lasts at least 10 years.
To address the mishandling of suspended cases, the department has sent more than 100 officers to try to find victims at their last known addresses. Additionally, 32 investigators and supervisors are now reviewing incident reports, attempting to contact victims, and scheduling follow-up interviews if needed. Victims who may have moved or need to update their contact information are urged to reach out to HPD.
Finner acknowledged that part of the department’s review will involve properly labeling and coding the reports to rectify the mistitling that has occurred thus far. He also identified staffing issues, stating that the department needs an additional 2,000 officers to adequately patrol streets and conduct investigations.
Another concern highlighted by Finner is HPD’s outdated record management system, which houses all reports and data. The system is at the end of its life cycle and is hardwired with the problematic code. Finner explained that a new system is expected in 2025 after receiving funding approval from the council.
In addition to the department’s review, an independent panel will also examine the handling of the suspended reports. Mayor John Whitmire announced the formation of this panel, although the members have not yet been disclosed. The timeline for the review has frustrated victims and victim advocates who are urging individuals to continue pushing for justice and to stay engaged with their cases.
Assistant chiefs Kevin Deese and Ernest Garcia have been demoted over the failure, as they were responsible for signing off on changes to the Houston police handbook. The handbook still contained the code allowing cases to go unresolved, despite Chief Finner’s request for its removal two years ago.
Despite the serious nature of the issue, Mayor Whitmire expressed confidence in Chief Finner and stated his commitment to fixing the problem. Finner echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that progress has already been made, and the department will continue to improve and be better moving forward.
The mishandling of suspended cases by the Houston Police Department is a significant concern that has affected victims and their families. The department’s acknowledgment of its mistakes, apology, and commitment to rectifying the issue are crucial steps towards providing justice and support to those impacted. It is now essential for the department to thoroughly review and address the systemic issues that led to these mishandlings, including staffing shortages and outdated record management systems. By implementing necessary changes and ensuring proper training and oversight, the Houston Police Department can regain trust and provide the trauma-informed, victim-centric services that victims deserve.
