Round Rock ISD Police Department Appoints New Chief to Navigate Challenges and Foster Community Trust

Round Rock ISD Police Department Welcomes New Leader

In the bustling city of Round Rock, a fresh chapter is about to unfold at the Round Rock Independent School District (ISD) Police Department. Ryan Urrutia, currently serving as the assistant chief deputy at the El Paso Sheriff’s Office, has been appointed as the new chief of police. His new role comes at a time when the department has seen its fair share of challenges, with district employees previously describing the environment as “toxic” and “chaotic.”

Transition of Leadership

Urrutia is stepping in for Dennis Weiner, who led the police department for almost two years before departing after a “personnel change” in May. This shift followed a district report detailing a variety of issues that had reportedly plagued the department. The findings included claims of favoritism, accusations of retaliation, and poor communication that resulted in department-wide discontent. The report even mentioned disparities in how employees were compensated for extra hours, suggesting that some received stipends while others did not.

Who is Ryan Urrutia?

Bringing over 28 years of law enforcement experience to Round Rock, Urrutia is a well-respected figure in the El Paso area, where he has been a pivotal part of local law enforcement. His role involved overseeing about 260 officers and support staff alongside a substantial budget of approximately $26 million. Urrutia has also played a crucial role in expanding the school resource officer program across four school districts in the county, emphasizing the importance of building connections between law enforcement and young people.

His philosophy revolves around the idea of collaboration. By working closely with school boards, Urrutia has found ways to nurture relationships and trust between the police and students. These connections are vital—especially in today’s world—where community engagement is more important than ever.

A Look at Urrutia’s Career and Background

Urrutia’s journey in law enforcement began when he joined the El Paso Sheriff’s Office in 1996 as a detention officer. His hard work paid off quickly, as he was promoted to deputy sheriff the very next year. Over the years, he demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, eventually becoming a commander and managing four patrol stations as well as emergency response teams.

While Urrutia’s career is largely commendable, it’s worth noting that records show he faced five internal complaints during his tenure. These resulted in three letters of reprimand for various issues, ranging from not turning in traffic citations to failing to follow the vehicle pursuit policy. However, Urrutia’s progression through the ranks still reflects a solid commitment to public service, an aspect that many can appreciate.

Education and Future Plans

On the educational front, Urrutia has impressive credentials, being a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy. He also holds a master’s degree from Purdue University, which adds to his qualifications to lead the Round Rock ISD Police Department into a new era of growth and improvement.

As Urrutia prepares to officially join the Round Rock ISD on September 17, he inherits a department eager for positive change. Many in the community are hopeful that his leadership style and experience will help forge a better working environment and foster healthier relationships within the district.

Let’s keep an eye on how Urrutia’s influence could transform the Round Rock ISD Police Department, setting the stage for a brighter and more collaborative future!