Five Pasadena police lieutenants have asked a court to determine whether Assistant Chief James Holt’s April 13, 2026 appointment complied with Texas civil-service law, according to Click2Houston. Their petition concerns requirements under Chapter 143 of the Texas Local Government Code, which addresses civil-service rules for covered municipal police positions.
The lieutenants have characterized the case as a dispute over whether the appointment followed those requirements, not as a challenge to the character or ability of Pasadena police officials, Click2Houston reported. The petition remains before the court.
Holt’s departure from the Pasadena Police Department was recorded as a resignation on July 7, 2025, before his appointment. He had joined the department in 1997 and served as a lieutenant for 14 years, including in several divisions, according to the city’s biography. He then worked as Mayor Thomas Schoenbein’s chief of staff, Click2Houston reported.
Former Police Chief M.P. Jackson appointed Holt before retiring on Aug. 28, 2026. The Houston Chronicle reported that Jackson’s retirement followed 47 years with the department. Schoenbein has expressed support for Interim Chief Raul Granados and the department’s assistant chiefs, even as some council members have called for leadership changes, according to Click2Houston.
The city and its officials will have an opportunity to respond to the petition’s allegations as the case proceeds.
