Freeman Martin Sworn In as Texas DPS Director
Texas celebrated a new chapter in its public safety history as Governor Greg Abbott administered the oath of office to Freeman F. Martin, the 14th Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The ceremony, held at DPS Headquarters in Austin, officially marked the beginning of Martin’s tenure leading one of the nation’s most respected state law enforcement agencies.
“Freeman Martin brings an extraordinary wealth of experience to this position,” said Governor Abbott. “Beginning as a trooper to becoming a Texas Ranger to eventually becoming the Senior Deputy Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, he has the knowledge at every level and every subject matter that is important to leading this remarkable agency. As much as his experience matters, what matters even more is what lies in the heart of a leader—and 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. It is an honor to swear-in Freeman Martin as the new Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety.”
“Today, Texas faces the most significant public safety and homeland security threats of our entire lifetime—and addressing those threats is no small task,” said Director Martin. “I thank Governor Abbott and the Public Safety Commission for trusting me and having the confidence in me to lead the premier state agency responsible for protecting Texas. As Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, it’s my job to make Texas safer and make the department better. And with the talent that we have across our state at every level, we will make that happen.”
Martin’s journey to this leadership role is a testament to his unwavering commitment to serving and protecting Texans. His DPS career began humbly in 1990 as a Texas Highway Patrol (THP) trooper in Winnie. Over the next three decades, he rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional dedication and leadership at every level.
His impressive resume includes serving as a THP Corporal in Lubbock, a Narcotics Service Sergeant in Houston, a Texas Ranger Sergeant in Houston, a Texas Ranger Lieutenant in Austin, and a Texas Ranger Captain and Texas Ranger Major in Houston.
In 2014, Martin was named Regional Commander for the Central Texas Region, showcasing his ability to oversee large-scale operations. His exceptional work led to his appointment as Deputy Director of Homeland Security Operations by the Public Safety Commission in 2018, a role in which he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Martin’s extensive experience and deep understanding of DPS’s operations painted a clear picture of the ideal candidate to lead the agency into the future.
The swearing-in ceremony was a momentous occasion attended by Public Safety Commission Chairman Steven Mach and former DPS Director Steve McCraw, along with other high-ranking law enforcement and DPS officials.
Martin’s inauguration signifies a new era for the Texas Department of Public Safety, one characterized by a steadfast commitment to public safety, unwavering dedication to the rule of law, and a resolute determination to tackle the evolving challenges facing Texas.
Given Director Martin’s experience and previous roles, what are some potential policy areas he may focus on as DPS director?
## Freeman Martin Steps Up as Texas DPS Director
**News Anchor:** Welcome back to the program. Today, Texas welcomed a new leader in the crucial realm of public safety. Freeman Martin was sworn in as the 14th director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, taking the reins from longtime leader Steve McCraw. We are joined now by our correspondent, Sarah Jones, who was on the scene for the ceremony. Sarah, fill us in on today’s events.
**Sarah Jones:** Good evening. Austin saw a significant moment for Texans today as Governor Abbott formally swore in Director Martin. It was obviously a ceremonial event imbued with a sense of both solemnity and optimism. Governor Abbott highlighted Director Martin’s extensive experience, starting from his time as a trooper and rising through the ranks to senior deputy director. The Governor emphasized Martin’s understanding of the DPS at every level and his unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law.
**News Anchor:** Director Martin spoke of the challenges ahead. Can you elaborate?
**Sarah Jones:** Absolutely. Director Martin, in his address, acknowledged the unprecedented nature of the public safety and homeland security threats facing Texas, labeling them the “most significant of our entire lifetime.” He acknowledged the weight of the responsibility entrusted to him and expressed his commitment to leading the DPS in protecting Texans.
**News Anchor:** This comes at a time when many are concerned about public safety in Texas. What are Director Martin’s key priorities going forward?
**Sarah Jones:** While he didn’t delve into specific policy details today, Director Martin’s emphasis on addressing “significant threats” suggests, to me, a focus on both traditional law enforcement and counterterrorism efforts. He previously served on the Governor’s Homeland Security Advisory Council, which further reinforces this notion.
**News Anchor:** Thank you, Sarah, for providing this insightful update. This is certainly a significant change for Texas, and we’ll be following Director Martin’s tenure closely. [[1]](https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2024/12/02/gov-greg-abbott-swears-in-new-director-of-texas-dps/)
