Former Lubbock Trooper Freeman Martin Becomes New DPS Director

Governor Greg Abbott has officially appointed Freeman F. Martin as the 14th Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in a ceremony held at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Martin, who started his career as a Highway Patrol trooper in Lubbock, offers more than thirty years of law enforcement experience in his new position.

“Freeman Martin’s extensive experience, ranging from trooper to Senior Deputy Director, equips him effectively to lead this exceptional agency,” stated Governor Abbott. “His dedication to the rule of law and public safety guarantees that Texas will continue to be a law-and-order state.”

Martin started his career with DPS in 1990, working as a Texas Highway Patrol trooper in Lubbock. Throughout his career, he has occupied several leadership positions, such as Narcotics Service Sergeant, Texas Ranger Captain, and Texas Ranger Major. In 2014, he was appointed Regional Commander for Central Texas and subsequently advanced to Senior Deputy Director.

In his remarks, Director Martin highlighted the seriousness of the ongoing public safety challenges. “Texas encounters unprecedented challenges to public safety and homeland security in our era,” he remarked. “In my role as DPS Director, I am dedicated to enhancing safety in Texas and advancing the department with the support of our skilled team throughout the state.”

The swearing-in ceremony was graced by the presence of Public Safety Commission Chairman Steven Mach, former DPS Director Steve McCraw, along with various other law enforcement leaders.

Martin takes over from former Director Steve McCraw and will guide the agency in protecting Texas from emerging threats while improving operational effectiveness. His Lubbock origins and professional journey demonstrate a strong dedication to serving the people of Texas.

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