August 12, 2025
GALVESTON, TEXAS (Aug. 12, 2025) – The Port of Galveston Police Department is proud to announce that it has officially achieved re-accreditation through the Texas Police Chiefs Association (TPCA) Law Enforcement Recognition Program. This accomplishment reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to accountability, transparency, and excellence in public safety.
TPCA accreditation is one of the highest professional standards available to law enforcement agencies in Texas. Fewer than 10 percent of departments in the state have earned this recognition. The Port of Galveston Police Department is proud to be one of only 218 agencies to meet this mark of distinction.
“This is not just a plaque on the wall. It is a public promise,” said Chief Kenneth Brown. “It means our department continues to meet and maintain the highest standards of professional policing. We are doing the work, and we are doing it right.”
The re-accreditation process involves a full review every four years. Independent assessors evaluate agency policies, operations, and compliance with more than 170 best practices. The Port of Galveston Police Department first achieved this recognition in 2021.
The department extends its appreciation to all personnel who supported this effort. Special recognition goes to Sgt. Chris Thai, who served as the department’s Accreditation Program Manager and led the effort with skill, focus, and dedication. The department also thanks Port Director Roger Rees for his continued support of professional law enforcement and public safety.
“Accreditation protects our department and our Port,” said Chief Brown. “It means we train well, prepare well, and document what we do. That builds public trust, and we take that responsibility seriously.”
More information about the TPCA Recognition Program is available at www.texaspolicechiefs.org/accreditation-program.
The Port of Galveston Police Department is a modern, full-service law enforcement agency of 40 sworn police officers, six telecommunicators, and two civilian personnel who provide 24/7 law enforcement coverage across more than 840 acres of port property.
Specialized units include a Marine Division operating a 31-foot SAFE Boat, Clay Garrison, and a drone team that supports surveillance, emergency response, and maritime security operations. The department supports the port’s operations, including the annual movement of over 3.4 million cruise passengers and nearly 1,000 vessel calls, working closely with federal partners such as the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security.
For more information, please contact:
Kathy Thomas
Galveston Wharves Communications Director
Kathy@communitystrategiesllc.com
