TITLE: Congratulating Chief Dale Holton on his retirement from the Lubbock Police Department.

SUMMARY: Congratulating Chief Dale Holton on his retirement from the Lubbock Police Department.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Chief Dale Holton of the Lubbock Police Department retired in February 2011 after an outstanding career in law enforcement that spanned 37 years; and WHEREAS, Dale Holton joined the Lubbock PD in the 1970s and was an original member of the department's SWAT team when it was formed in 1977; he went on to serve as SWAT team commander from 1985 to 1996 and again from 2001 to February 2008, when he was named chief; and WHEREAS, An innovator who always looked for ways to improve the department, Chief Holton upgraded the in-car camera system to digital and started the transition to in-car laptop computers, changes that have significantly enhanced officer efficiency; he also focused on recruiting, resulting in a net gain of more than 20 sworn officers, established a merit-based system of promotion to detective, made the SWAT team full-time, and prioritized training; and WHEREAS, In late 2009, Chief Holton reinforced his reputation as someone who leads by example when he chased and arrested a burglary suspect during his lunch break; while not the usual routine for the chief of a 380-officer department, it exemplified his attitude that the department is a team; and WHEREAS, Dale Holton has greatly benefited his community through his outstanding public service, and he may indeed reflect with pride on his notable accomplishments as he embarks on the next exciting chapter of his life; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Chief Dale Holton on his retirement from the Lubbock Police Department and extend to him sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Chief Holton as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Frullo Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 820 was adopted by the House on March 31, 2011, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House