x
Breaking News
More () »

'Highest honor to serve as your chief' | Troy Finner releases statement after retiring from Houston Police Department

Troy Finner joined the Houston Police Department 34 years ago.

HOUSTON — Troy Finner is retiring after serving three years as chief of the Houston Police Department.

The news of his retirement came amid an investigation into the department's suspension of incident reports due to a "lack of personnel." 

"The last few months of my career were, perhaps, the most challenging yet most rewarding," Finner said in a statement he posted to X, formerly known as Twitter. "It was painful because some victims of violent crime did not receive the quality care and service they deserved. But, it was beneficial because we implemented measures to ensure this never happens again. Our department and our profession will be better because of it."

Finner joined HPD 34 years ago. He was working as a patrol officer for 12 years before being promoted to sergeant. He spent five years in this role before becoming a lieutenant. Seven years later, he was assigned the role of assistant chief and took over as police chief when former Mayor Sylvester Turner appointed him in 2021. 

TIMELINE: HPD Chief Troy Finner's retirement ends 34-year career with the department

Finner said becoming a Houston police officer was one of the best choices he's ever made and it was an honor serving the Houston community. 

"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the citizens who have shown me unconditional love and support," he said.

Finner didn't say what's next for him but said whatever the future holds, he will continue to serve others. 

Read his full statement below:

"Thirty-four years ago, I decided to become a Houston police officer and serve my city. It has been one of the best choices I've made in my life. Every day, even the most challenging ones, has been rewarding.

Without a don't, we have the best citizens in the world, and it has been an honor to service every neighborhood in our city. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the citizens who have shown me unconditional love and support. 

It has been a privilege to work with some of the most dedicated and honorable public servants, both civilian and classified. Your contributions to our city have been unmatched. Let's make sure to love and support one another as a family as we provide services to our great community.

I will always remember and honor the 121 members in the history of our agency who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. Let's never forget them or their families. 

The last few months of my career were, perhaps, the most challenging yet most rewarding. It was painful because some victims of violent crime did not receive the quality care and service they deserved. But, it was beneficial because we implemented measures to ensure this never happens again. Our department and our profession will be better because of it.

Most importantly, I would like to thank God for guiding my steps and keeping me safe throughout my career. I would also like to thank my family and close friends for their unwavering support. 

It was the highest honor to serve as your chief for three years in this great department and city. Whatever the future holds for me, I will continue to serve others."

Background of 'lack of personnel' code

KHOU 11 on social media: Facebook | X | Instagram | YouTube

Before You Leave, Check This Out