After a tenure that spanned over a decade, Colonel Steven C. McCraw bid farewell to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) where he served as Director for 15 years. His departure marks the end of a significant era for the department, according to a DPS news release. McCraw's career in law enforcement began in 1977 with the Texas Highway Patrol, and he joined DPS as Director in 2009 after serving with the FBI and as the Texas Homeland Security Director.
Praise for McCraw's service was echoed by Governor Greg Abbott who commended him for upholding the rule of law and positively impacting the safety of the state, meanwhile, State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa hailed him as a personification of honor, duty, and leadership - through his adept management and strong advocacy for the agency DPS has seen a range of improvements including better staffing, equipment, and pay for commissioned officers. During McCraw's leadership, 3,144 recruits graduated from the DPS Training Academy, and the agency shifted to a regional command structure aimed at unifying operations statewide, as detailed by the DPS.
Public safety improvements during McCraw's time were highlighted by the Public Safety Commission Chairman Steven P. Mach, who credited the director's "visionary leadership" for DPS's prestige today, underscoring the collaboration with Governor Abbott and the Texas Legislature in making progress in various domains including advancement in safety measures, recruitment, and personnel development, as per the DPS.
Moving forward, Lt. Colonel Freeman F. Martin will assume the role of the Texas Department of Public Safety's (DPS) 14th Director on December 1, with a swearing-in ceremony the following day at DPS Headquarters. This transition follows Director Steve McCraw's 15-year tenure, which ends on November 30, as reported by the DPS. McCraw was honored with a ceremonial departure, including a lined drive and flyover, as DPS staff celebrated his impactful leadership and career. Martin is set to build on McCraw's legacy as he takes the helm of the agency.
