Chief Gregory Stevens Appointed Executive Director of Texas Commission on Law Enforcement

Chief Gregory Stevens has been appointed as the executive director of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE), effective January 8, 2024, according to an announcement made by TCOLE on Thursday. Stevens, who recently served as the Chief of Police of the Rockport Police Department, brings over 26 years of experience, including nearly four years as the Chief of Police in the Lubbock Police Department.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Stevens stated, “I am excited for the opportunity to lead an agency with a critically important mission at a time of growth and potential.” He emphasized the importance of building partnerships with the law enforcement community, state leadership, and the public to successfully carry out their responsibilities.

Stevens is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy and the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (LEMIT) Leadership Command College. He holds a bachelor of science in criminal justice degree from Wayland Baptist University and a master’s of business administration from Texas Tech University. Additionally, Stevens served as a military police officer and a Naval Intelligence Officer.

“We are thrilled to announce Chief Gregory Stevens as the next TCOLE Executive Director. His extensive law enforcement background, combined with his military and educational experience, made him an ideal candidate,” stated Presiding Officer Kim Lemaux. The commissioners expressed their anticipation of working with Stevens in his new role, thanking General Counsel John Beauchamp for his service as Interim Executive Director during the transition period.

TCOLE, responsible for overseeing approximately 115,000 licensed individuals and more than 2,700 law enforcement agencies, ensures that Texans are served by highly trained and ethical law enforcement, corrections, and telecommunications personnel. The agency is governed by a board of commissioners appointed by the governor, and in the search for a candidate, Stevens was selected as the top choice by the commissioners.