Lamar CISD Police Chief Henry Garcia and a lieutenant have been fired as part of an investigation first reported in February, ABC13 has learned, leaving the district's police department without a chief.
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 3:37AMLamar CISD Police Chief Henry Garcia and a lieutenant have been fired as part of an investigation first reported in February, ABC13 has learned, leaving the district's police department without a chief. Garcia had led the department since 2023. Records show he previously worked with Maria Molina at the Stafford Police Department for about seven years before bringing her to Lamar CISD, where she was promoted to lieutenant in August 2025.
In February, ABC13 reported that two Lamar CISD police officers were under investigation. At the time, the district provided no details, not even their names, and only confirmed they had been placed on leave.
In a seven-page filing to the Texas Attorney General, the district cited 'common law privacy,' arguing the case involves potentially 'highly intimate or embarrassing facts' unrelated to public concern. Thomas Gregor, a board member for Freedom of Information Foundation Texas, says that argument raises questions. 'The fact that they have raised all of these on an issue that obviously has public importance tends to suggest something is happening. They are just not willing to disclose it,' Gregor said. He argues that actions taken by public officials on public property should not be shielded from disclosure.
Attorneys for both Garcia and Molina confirm the terminations were for 'conduct unbecoming an officer.' ABC13 has also learned from sources that the alleged incident occurred on district property and that video evidence exists. Both attorneys claim the district failed to follow proper investigative procedures and say they are appealing the terminations. Molina's attorney, Matthew Banister, went further, stating the decision is 'not substantiated by the facts' and that she plans to 'vigorously defend her reputation.' The district, which serves nearly 50,000 students and is one of the state's fastest-growing, did not notify parents of the 'staffing changes' until late Tuesday, and only after ABC13's repeated requests for comment.
'If you have a child in the district and the police chief has been fired, should people know that?' reporter Jessica Willey asked. 'Absolutely,' he replied. 'They work for the public. They work for the district. They work for the parents. They work for the students, and they should be entitled to know what those people are doing and whether they are employed or not unemployed.'
Full statement from Larry McDougal Jr., attorney for Henry Garcia: 'We have a grievance regarding the termination process conducted by Lamar CISD. The school district neglected to adhere to the required procedures, investigation protocols, and governance guidelines of LCISD when terminating a police officer. We kindly request that Superintendent Nivens review his actions in this matter.'
Full statement from Matthew Banister, attorney for Maria Molina: Lt Maria Molina has officially filed a formal grievance and appeal regarding her termination by Superintendent Roosevelt Nivens. The grievance asserts that Superintendent Nivens and the School District failed to follow required procedures and investigation protocols, including governing guidelines from LCISD regarding the termination of a police officer. Lt Molina adamantly protests this action, stating it is not substantiated by the facts. She intends to vigorously defend her reputation to ensure such a miscarriage of justice does not affect other officers in the future.'
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Selma police chief placed on leave again; mayor points to overtime, leadership concernsFor the third time in just over two years, Selma’s police chief is off the job.
Read more »
Troy Finner hired as Missouri City Police Chief nearly 2 years after HPD scandal, retirementFormer Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner has been hired as the new police chief of Missouri City, according to an email sent by the city manager on Monday.
Read more »
'This decision is out of my hands': SPD Chief discusses Katie Wilson restricting policeListen to The Gee Scott and Ursula Reutin Show weekdays 9am - noon on KIRO Newsradio.
Read more »
Selma names interim chief of policeMontgomery, Alabama
Read more »
Former HPD Chief Troy Finner named Missouri City Police Department chief, city saysOfficials said the decision to hire the former HPD chief was based on his experience and ability to lead.
Read more »
Former Houston Police Chief Troy Finner to lead Missouri City PDFormer Houston Police Chief Troy Finner has been appointed to lead the Missouri City Police Department.
Read more »