Humble Police Chief Dan Zientek remains on unpaid administrative leave while a city-hired law firm conducts an independent review of the department's leadership. Newly released city spending records show nearly $60,000 in travel and training charges tied to the chief and a senior officer's spouse, layering financial questions on top of already sharp concerns about morale and promotions inside the department.
City records detail training bills and personnel moves
City documents obtained by reporters show the chief and the former chief’s wife were billed for almost $60,000 in travel and training over fiscal years 2024 and 2025. The former captain, Twyla Kimberlin, is listed with nearly $40,000 in charges and two rapid promotions last year. According to Click2Houston, the records also show Kevin Wolf, who received nearly $15,000 in expenses, had a Nov. 2022 letter indicating he failed a background check but was later hired. The city manager said those concerns were "fully and satisfactorily explained."
Outside law firm leading the review
The City of Humble has retained an outside law firm to lead the probe and has limited public comment while the review plays out. As reported by the Houston Chronicle, City Manager Jason Stuebe said he expects the investigation to be finished by the end of January, and the chief's paid leave was first reported in our December coverage.
Survey points to morale, favoritism and turnover
An eight-page internal survey, made public through a records request, shows roughly 40 of the department's 95 employees raised concerns about favoritism, inconsistent discipline and poor communication. The same reporting notes about 30 officers have left the department over the past three years, according to Click2Houston.
City response and what comes next
City leaders say they are cooperating with the independent review and have declined on-camera interviews while it proceeds. Capt. Kris Battenfield is serving as acting chief in the interim. ABC13 reported the probe opened after two internal complaints and quoted the city manager as stressing the city's commitment to transparency while the law firm completes its work.
Outcomes could affect staffing and policy
Officials say the review could prompt personnel actions or policy changes once the outside firm issues its findings, and residents say they will be watching for any recommendations. As noted by the Houston Chronicle, city leaders say they hope to have the investigation wrapped up by the end of January.
