Search for the Chief

More speculation about who will replace Harold Hurtt as HPD chief.

Gary Blankinship, president of the Houston Police Officers’ Union, and other officers said they’ve heard Timothy N. Oettmeier, 57, Vicki L. King, 48, and Kirk A. Munden, 49, all assistant chiefs, mentioned as possible candidates to replace Harold Hurtt, who announced his resignation on Tuesday.

Hurtt plans to step down on Dec. 30, two days before Parker takes office.

Oettmeier, who joined the Police Department in September 1973, heads three commands, including information services, special support services and tactical support.

King, who became an HPD officer in November 1985, heads the tactical support command, which includes special operations, tactical operations, traffic enforcement, air support and vehicular crimes.

Munden, who joined HPD in May 1981, oversees operation of the department’s 14 patrol areas across the city.

Parker’s spokeswoman said the mayor-elect has not singled anyone out.

“She does not have anyone in the back of her mind,” said Janice Evans-Davis. “She wants her own person over there, someone who truly understands HPD, and someone who is truly committed to changing the way we do policing.”

Two of those names have been previously mentioned as possibilities. Whoever it is, I hope he or she has a good plan to clean up the latest mess within the crime lab, as well as a plan to lobby the Lege and Commissioners Court to create and fund an independent regional crime lab. The next chief will certainly have plenty to do.

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