The Texas Department of Public Safety has a new director after Gov. Greg Abbott swore in Freeman Martin as the department’s 14th colonel Monday. Martin served in various capacities with DPS for more than 30 years and is the first Texas Ranger to be named director.
The change of command ceremony was held at DPS headquarters and featured remarks from Abbott, outgoing director Colonel Steven McCraw,Lieutenant Colonel Jason Taylor, the commanding officer over the Texas Rangers, and others.
“(Martin) has the knowledge at every level and every subject matter that is important to leading this remarkable agency,” Abbott said in a statement. “What lies in the heart of Freeman Martin is true dedication to the rule of law. He will ensure Texas remains a law-and-order state and safeguard the public safety of Texans.”
Martin’s new term as director began on Dec. 1.
Prior to being named director, Martin was the senior deputy director over Homeland Security at DPS. He also served as a regional director over central Texas and has worked in both the Highway Patrol Division and Narcotics Service before his time as a Ranger.
“Today, Texas faces the most significant public safety and homeland security threats of our entire lifetime—and addressing those threats is no small task,” Martin said in a statement.
Martin has led Operation Lonestar, Texas’ border response including DPS and the Texas National Guard, and the department’s response to Hurricane Harvey. He also led the response to the Sutherland Springs mass shooting and established San Antonio’s Texas Anti-Gang Center.