Governor Greg Abbott presented the Texas Officer of the Year Awards at the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas (CLEAT) annual convention, recognizing law enforcement officers for their contributions to public safety in the state.
“Public safety starts with our law enforcement,” said Governor Abbott. “You cannot go to work, you cannot go to school, you cannot go shopping, you cannot live in your community and feel safe without the support of law enforcement to ensure that safety. You don’t get thanked enough for your bravery, for your valor, and what you do for our state. I am grateful for you and your work to keep our communities safe. We look forward to working with you to achieve our joint mission, and that is to make Texas safer every single day.”
Governor Abbott was accompanied by CLEAT President Scott Leeton, CLEAT Executive Director Robert Leonard, CLEAT Deputy Executive Director Jennifer Szimanski, award recipients, and other law enforcement leaders at the ceremony.
During his remarks, Governor Abbott emphasized the essential role of law enforcement in protecting Texans. He referenced legislative actions from the 89th Legislative Session in which Texas passed significant bail reform measures aimed at keeping dangerous offenders off the streets. He also acknowledged all Texas law enforcement officers for their courage and dedication.
The following individuals received the 2025 Texas Officer of the Year Awards: Jessica Caro (El Paso Police Department), Jason Davis (La Marque Police Department), Ilse Gerardo (Dallas Police Department), Suracy Gonzalez (El Paso County Sheriff’s Office), Michael Gutierrez (McAllen Police Department), Harvey Richard “Dick” Hill (Arlington Police Department), Scott Leeton (Corpus Christi Police Department), Hayden McAdams (Potter County Sheriff’s Office), Ashton Moss (Vidor Police Department), Michael Nelson (Tarrant County Sheriff’s Department), Daniel Pollard (Bexar County Sheriff’s Office), Jairo Sanchez (San Antonio Police Department), Michael Stephenson (Vidor Police Department), Frank Tapia (San Antonio Police Department), and Ben Wright (Fort Worth Police Department).
Additional photos from the event are expected to be made available later.
