2025 New Braunfels Police Department Annual Report

ANNUAL REPORT

NEW BRAUNFELS POLICE DEPARTMENT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

As Mayor of the City of New Braunfels, I am proud to share this Annual Report from the New Braunfels Police Department, an organization that reflects the very best of our community.

New Braunfels continues to experience steady growth. Families are choosing to call our city home, businesses are investing in our future, and visitors from across Texas and beyond are drawn to our quality of life. With that growth comes increased responsibility. I am pleased to convey that our police department has not only kept pace, but has excelled.

The results speak for themselves. The 2024 National Community Survey reports that our residents feel a strong sense of safety in New Braunfels, with 80% of the respondents rating police services as excellent or good. Residents gave particularly high marks for feeling safe in their neighborhoods, in downtown and commercial areas, and from both violent and property crimes. In 2025, total crime in New Braunfels decreased by 5% compared to the previous year. In a growing city, that is a remarkable achievement and reflects proactive policing strategies, data-informed decision-making, and a steadfast commitment to prevention and community engagement.

An independent staffing study completed in 2025 further confirmed the department’s strong performance, noting extraordinary response times and overall operational effectiveness. The study also provided strategic recommendations to help ensure we remain ahead of future growth and continue delivering exceptional service in the years to come.

Public safety is foundational to everything we value as a community, from vibrant neighborhoods and thriving businesses to safe parks, community events, and schools. On behalf of the City Council and the residents of New Braunfels, I extend my sincere appreciation to the men and women of the New Braunfels Police Department for their professionalism, integrity, and unwavering dedication.

Neal Linnartz

New Braunfels Mayor

CITY HALL

CITY COUNCIL

Mayor: Neal Linnartz

District One: Toni Carter

District Two: Michael Capizzi

District Three: D. Lee Edwards

District Four: Mayor Pro Tem Lawrence Spradley

District Five: Mary Ann Labowski

District Six: April Ryan

EXECUTIVE STAFF

Deputy City Manager: Jordan Matney

Assistant City Manager: Jared Werner

Police Chief: Osbaldo Flores

Fire Chief: Ruy Lozano

Director of Public Works: Greg Malatek

Director of Finance: Sandy Paulos

Director of Human Resources: Becca Miears

Director of Information Technology: Tony Gonzalez

ADMINISTRATION

City Manager: Robert Camareno

City Attorney: Valeria Acevedo

Municipal Court Judge: Rose Zamora

Director of Neighborhood & Community Planning: Christopher Looney

Director of Parks & Recreation: Ken Wilson

Director of Library: Cole Johnson

Director of Economic & Community Development: Jeff Jewell

Director of Communications & Community Engagement: Jenna Vinson

Director of Transportation & Construction Services: Garry Ford

City Secretary: Gayle Wilkinson

Municipal Court Administrator: Ruth Sandoval

MESSAGE FROM CHIEF FLORES

On behalf of the dedicated men and women of the New Braunfels Police Department, I am proud to present our 2025 Annual Report. It is truly an honor to serve as your Chief of Police in the City of New Braunfels. My family and I are deeply grateful for the warm welcome and tremendous support we received when we relocated to New Braunfels in early 2025. The strength and spirit of this community exceeded all our expectations.

The report that follows tells the story of our people, our work, and our accomplishments throughout 2025, including the meaningful impact we have within our community. It stands as a testament to the professionalism, dedication, and commitment demonstrated each day by our police officers, dispatchers, detectives, professional staff, and valued volunteers.

Within these pages, you will find highlights of key achievements, innovative initiatives, and the department’s primary areas of focus as we move forward. Through this report, we strive to promote transparency, recognize progress, and clearly illustrate how our efforts align with our mission and core values.

Since being appointed Chief of Police, I have centered our efforts on four foundational pillars that guide our priorities, inform our strategies, and support our mission to serve with integrity and excellence:

Organizational Assessment & Strategic Planning

We regularly evaluate our organizational structure and services to ensure we remain responsive, efficient, and aligned with the evolving needs of our growing community.

Operational & Administrative Excellence

We are committed to excellence in daily operations, administrative functions, and service delivery through innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Communication, Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

By strengthening relationships with our community members, partners, and stakeholders, we promote trust, transparency, and a shared commitment to public safety.

Leadership Development & Professional Growth

We invest in our team members through leadership development, ongoing training, education, and mentorship to foster professionalism and excellence at every level.

Throughout my 28 years in law enforcement, I have learned that the safety and vitality of any community depend on strong partnerships and collaboration—both within city government and across the community. We are grateful for the continued support from our residents and partners and remain committed to strengthening these relationships as we move forward together.

We hope you find Team NBPD’s 2025 Annual Report informative and engaging. We look forward to continuing our work with you as we write our next chapter in 2026.

Osbaldo Flores Chief of Police New Braunfels Police Department

NBPD COMMAND STAFF

John McDonald Captain Administration

James Bell Lieutenant Administration (Special Events)

Brain Onofre Lieutenant Patrol

Joseph Robles Lieutenant Administration (Professional Standards)

David Cantu Lieutenant Special Operations

Osbaldo Flores Chief of Police

David Blevins Assistant Chief of Police

Stephen Hanna Captain Support Services

Paul Marler 911 Center Supervisor Communication Supervisor

Sabrina Gonzales Senior Administration Assistant

Penshorn (Retired) Captain Operations

Jace Hobbs Lieutenant Criminal Investigations

Carollo Lieutenant Patrol

DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATION

METRICS

CRIME STATISTICS

DIVISIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

PATROL

The Patrol Division is the foundation of any police department. When a call for help comes, they are often the first to arrive and last to leave. They provide an unwavering presence that safeguards the community and upholds public safety.

Operating around the clock, these officers do far more than merely respond to calls for service. They resolve complex issues in real time and serve as the department’s most visible representatives.

The Patrol Division is comprised of eighty-two (82) officers and supervisors assigned across day, evening, and midnight shifts, ensuring continuous coverage and operational readiness. During 2025, officers—primarily from the Patrol Division—responded to over 70,000 calls for service, underscoring both the substantial demand for police services and the department’s ongoing commitment to proactive, community-focused policing.

Throughout the year, the division also celebrated the promotion of three (3) lieutenants, four (4) sergeants, and four (4) corporals, strengthening its leadership structure. Additionally, the Field Training Officers (FTOs) successfully mentored and trained ten (10) probationary police officers—an accomplishment that underscores their dedication to developing the next generation of law enforcement professionals.

Patrol officers serve as the department’s generalists, requiring a diverse skillset that blends legal knowledge, emergency medical response, crisis intervention, and tactical proficiency. Over the course of a single shift, an officer may transition seamlessly from deescalating a volatile disturbance, to administering lifesaving aid at the scene of a serious motor vehicle accident, to apprehending a suspect during a high-risk traffic stop. In addition to responding to critical incidents, patrol officers conduct proactive business checks to strengthen partnerships with local business owners and deter criminal activity. This breadth of responsibility underscores the adaptability, professionalism, and sound judgment required of those assigned to the Patrol Division.

Beyond the sirens, the Patrol Division is where the most meaningful community connections are forged. Whether it’s helping a stranded motorist change a tire or taking five minutes to toss a football with kids at a local park, these officers represent the humanity of our noble profession. Every interaction, regardless of the encounter, is an opportunity to enhance the legitimacy of the department. Patrol is about being a visible, approachable, and reliable neighbor to every member of our community.

By the Numbers: Impact and Excellence

The efficiency of our Patrol Division is what keeps our city safe. Here is a look at their impact over the last year:

To handle the unpredictable nature of the job, our officers utilize state-of-the-art equipment designed for safety and transparency. This includes body-worn cameras, advanced mobile data terminals (MDTs) for real-time information, and integrated medical kits. A Commitment

to Excellence

Every time an officer puts on the badge and hits the street, they carry the weight of public trust. This trust must be earned by our actions every day. Our Patrol Division doesn’t just react to circumstances; they proactively shape a safer environment through vigilance, empathy, and professional integrity. They embody our department motto: “It’sNotJustAJob,It’sACommitment.”

TRAFFIC UNIT

Comprised of six dedicated team members, the New Braunfels Police Department’s Traffic Unit is committed to protecting the lives of our residents and visitors by consistently maintaining roadway safety and public trust through proactive enforcement, datadriven strategies, and community-focused education.

In 2025, Traffic Unit members conducted a total of 4,685 contacts during the year as part of high-visibility enforcement efforts targeting speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and other hazardous behaviors. These initiatives led to improved driver compliance and a measurable reduction in traffic-related incidents on some of the city’s busiest roadways.

In addition to enforcement, the Traffic Unit remains actively engaged with the community by participating in 32 public safety and special events, school programs, child passenger safety initiatives, and driver education efforts designed to prevent collisions before they occur. By combining enforcement with education, the unit reinforces the department’s mission of prevention, accountability, and service. Whether providing critical support during major events like Wurstfest, Downtown Spooktacular, or the July 4th fireworks event, the Traffic Unit operates with professionalism and precision.

Over the past year, two members of the Traffic Unit obtained certifications through the Texas Department of Public Safety to conduct Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement (CVE). Although the certification process is lengthy and demanding, it has significantly expanded the unit’s effectiveness and enhanced its ability to investigate and manage crashes involving commercial motor vehicles. In just a few months of focused CVE activity, these two members completed 58 inspections, documented hundreds of violations, and placed more than 20 vehicles out of service. Their efforts align with the unit’s mission of improving roadway safety and preventing crashes.

The Traffic Unit also consists of two officers who make up the DWI unit, whose primary purpose is to identify intoxicated drivers and make our roadways safer through strict enforcement. In 2025, the traffic unit alone made a total of 442 DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) arrests, and six arrests for DUI (Driving Under the Influence). These 448 arrests are in addition to related arrests made by patrol officers. All six members adjust their schedules during special events or holidays to focus on impaired or intoxicated drivers.

On the investigative side, the Traffic Unit Reconstruction Team responded to 13 callouts during the year, resulting in 11 cases being submitted to the District Attorney’s Office, while two incidents were determined to be non-criminal in nature. In addition to 224 assigned cases, the Traffic Unit responded to 921 crashes citywide during the year, while patrol officers investigated all other vehicle crashes.

Through teamwork, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose, the New Braunfels Police Department Traffic Unit continues to have a meaningful impact on the quality of life within the community. Their efforts not only save lives but also strengthen the relationship between the department and those we serve.

AIR UNIT

The New Braunfels Police Department Air Unit, an unmanned aircraft system (drone) program, was established in 2019. The deployment of this technology enhances operational safety by providing real-time intelligence to first responders, improves emergency response effectiveness through rapid aerial assessment, and supports transparency by documenting incidents with objective visual evidence for the benefit of both officers and the community. Officer Smith (now Sergeant Smith) initially presented the concept to the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (CPAAA), which recognized the program as cutting-edge technology not yet being utilized by surrounding law enforcement agencies in the area. Acknowledging its operational value and future impact, the CPAAA provided critical financial support that directly contributed to the program’s success.

The CPAAA, along with a generous contribution from one of its members, funded the purchase of the program’s first two primary aircraft, representing an approximate $70,000 investment.

The Air Unit is designed and operated as a patrol-based program, with its success and department-wide support stemming from an emphasis on mobility and rapid deployment. NBPD drones are predominantly launched directly from the cargo areas of patrol vehicles rather than being centralized at any one location. This approach enables quick response to dynamic incidents.

Over the years, the unit has grown to include seven certified pilots. New pilot onboarding involves an intensive 6–9-month training period, during which new pilots obtain their FAA Part 107 remote pilot certification. The Air Unit has become a regional role-model program, with multiple agencies consulting NBPD for guidance on establishing their own drone programs and adopting best practices.

Key Operational Statistics (for the 2025 calendar year):

• Patrol missions: 451 flights / 107.67 hours

• Criminal Investigations Division (CID): 163 flights / 42.63 hours

• City events overwatch: 73 flights / 21.09 hours

• Assistance to other agencies: 53 flights / 15.26 hours

• New Braunfels Fire Department (NBFD) support: 13 flights / 3.44 hours

• SWAT operations: 129 flights / 33.56 hours (across 19 activations)

In total, the unit has conducted nearly 1,000 flights, accumulating approximately 250 flight hours in 2025. Notable impacts include locating approximately 28 fleeing criminals in 2025. The unit has provided aerial support in joint operations with federal partners, including assistance to DEA/FBI efforts targeting the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang, resulting in 180 arrests from just two operations alone. Additionally, the Air Unit assisted the Burnet County Sheriff’s Office during search operations following the July 2025 floods, supporting efforts to locate a missing Marble Falls fire chief whose vehicle had been swept away. NBPD’s Air Unit was specifically requested due to its advanced technology, including a LiDAR scanner not available to other agencies in the region, which significantly enhances search capabilities.

Operational drone uses include:

• Responding to high-priority calls and pursuits involving fleeing subjects.

• Assisting New Braunfels Fire Department in firefighting efforts.

• Mapping and documenting fatality crashes.

• Mapping and documenting crime scenes.

• Supporting river operations.

• Assisting the Criminal Investigations Division.

• Providing aerial support during SWAT operations.

• Conducting community outreach demonstrations for local schools, Comal County Advocacy Center, Citizens Police Academy, City University, and Leadership New Braunfels.

• Delivering aerial safety support during large community gatherings, including parades, seasonal celebrations, Wassailfest, Día de los Muertos, Sangerfest, and New Braunfels High School graduations, with a focus on public safety and emergency preparedness. By improving officer safety, enhancing situational awareness, and streamlining response efforts, the program advances overall operational effectiveness and reinforces our commitment to community partnership and public safety.

K-9 UNIT

In 2025, the K-9 Unit worked in close coordination with Patrol, the Street Crimes Unit, the Air Unit, School Resource Officers, and various external partner agencies, resulting in the recovery of narcotics, currency, firearms, evidentiary items, and the apprehension of wanted individuals. The unit conducted a total of 757 deployments, of which 495 were narcotics-related and 262 supported other operational initiatives integrating K-9 resources. Among these deployments, 85 apprehensions were without a bite, demonstrating the effective use of K-9s to de-escalate situations and facilitate safe custody. The current K-9 Unit maintains a bite ratio of 0.82%. Deployment activity in 2025 was highest on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with peak operational hours occurring between 9:00pm and 1:00am.

After more than seven years of dedicated service alongside K-9 Officer Bobo, K-9 Voska retired this year, concluding a distinguished career of service to the department and community.

For the year, the K-9 Unit completed a total of 4,160 training hours, reflecting its continued commitment to operational readiness and professional excellence. Their training time encompasses daily maintenance training, designated training days, the completion of K-9 Neo’s training and certification, and the full training cycle required to transition K-9 Sunshine from initial development to certified operational status. These training hours also include several courses that handlers attended in order to increase their knowledge, skills, and capabilities, including: DLE Conference, HITS K9 Conference, NePoPo® Silver and Gold Schools, Bellator K-9

Integrating with SWAT Course, S.K.I.D.D.S/C.A.T.S. Course, and ORO K-9 Decoy School. Additionally, the K-9 Unit participated in over 12 K-9 demonstrations for the community at various functions throughout our city.

CRISIS NEGOTIATIONS TEAM

In 2025, the Crisis Negotiations Team continued to serve as the department’s primary resource for the peaceful resolution of highrisk incidents. The unit was deployed seven times in situations involving barricaded subjects, suicide interventions, and hostage scenarios. Notably, over 50% of these incidents were successfully resolved through verbal de-escalation alone, underscoring the department’s commitment to preserving human life and minimizing the level of force needed to resolve a critical incident.

Key Achievements & Strategic Milestones

• De-Escalation Efficacy: Maintained a 57% success rate for incidents involving armed individuals in mental health crises, successfully transitioning subjects to medical or psychological care without injury.

• Inter-Agency Cooperation: Hosted the 2025 Regional Negotiation Competition, improving communication protocols with neighboring jurisdictions for multi-agency incidents.

• Technological Integration: Successfully integrated NBPD’s Command Vehicle into operations.

Training & Professional Development

This year, the team focused on the evolving landscape of behavioral health.

• Advanced Certifications: 100% of team members completed over 40 hours of advanced training in Active Listening Skills (ALS) and attended numerous outreach programs.

• Specialized Scenarios: The team conducted multiple joint-training exercises with the SWAT team to ensure seamless transitions during high-stress incidents.

Looking Forward: 2026 Objectives

• Expanded Intelligence Roles: Training dedicated to utilizing social media and public records more quickly during active crises.

• Mental Health Liaison Program: Strengthening partnerships with local mobile crisis teams to ensure long-term follow-up for subjects negotiated into custody.

• Peer Support: Formalizing a post-incident debriefing protocol to manage the long-term emotional impact on unit members.

The Crisis Negotiations Team continues to be the quiet professional force of the department. By prioritizing communication, the team has not only saved lives but significantly reduced departmental liability and preserved community trust.

“Timeisonourside,andourvoiceisourgreatestweapon.”

SWAT

The mission of the New Braunfels Police Department SWAT Team is to save lives—those of the public, fellow officers, and suspects. SWAT members are more than officers equipped with advanced gear; they operate as a highly coordinated unit founded on discipline, precision, and an unwavering commitment to life preservation. The team is designated as a Tier Two collateral duty unit comprised of 26 members, including a full-time commander, patrol officers, supervisors, detectives, and personnel from the New Braunfels Fire Department. Each member holds a specialized role, enhancing proficiency in critical operations.

In 2025, the SWAT Team responded to 16 emergency callouts and conducted 38 planned operations. To ensure rapid delivery of advanced medical care, when necessary, three Tactical Medics from the New Braunfels Fire Department were embedded within the team. These highly trained paramedics specialize in Tactical Medicine and provide life-saving aid in “warm zones” long before traditional emergency medical personnel can safely enter.

The team demonstrated a strong commitment to operational readiness and professional development by completing over 260 hours of advanced training. Members participated in specialized courses including hostage rescue operations, Advanced SWAT School, Advanced Close Quarters Entry, and SKIDS training, which integrates K-9 support when required. These efforts strengthened tactical proficiency, coordination, and response capabilities, ensuring the team is fully prepared to manage complex, high-risk incidents safely and effectively.

Beyond operational duties, the SWAT Team actively engages with the community through events such as Kops and Kids, school career days, City University programs, and Meet the Trucks. These outreach efforts foster positive interactions, build public trust, educate residents about policing roles, and inspire future generations, reinforcing the team’s commitment to both public safety and community partnerships.

In 2025, the SWAT Team also expanded its professional development by participating in multiple SWAT competitions for the first time in the program’s existence. These events tested tactical skills, teamwork, and decision-making under pressure against teams from across the United States. The team earned three Top 10 finishes, reflecting their high level of preparation, adaptability, and pursuit of excellence. Beyond recognition, these competitions enhance skillsets, build professional relationships with other teams, and elevate the profile of the New Braunfels Police Department.

CRIME VICTIM LIAISONS

The New Braunfels Police Department currently employs two Crime Victim Liaisons (CVLs), who serve a vital role in supporting victims and their families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Acting as a consistent and compassionate point of contact, CVLs guide individuals through the criminal justice process, facilitate access to community resources, assist with required documentation, and coordinate closely with prosecuting authorities.

Additionally, the CVLs provide ongoing case updates and connect victims with critical support services, including counseling and emergency housing, ensuring individuals are fully supported throughout their interactions with the legal system. They also assist departmental operations by arranging temporary care for children when police activity involves their caregiver(s), further underscoring their dedication to victim advocacy and the overall wellbeing of the community.

VICTIM SERVICES ANNUAL SUMMARY

TRAININGS ATTENDED

Crimes Against Children

TVSA Conference

Human Trafficking Training

PUBLIC EVENTS

(FACILITATED OR ATTENDED)

Third Annual Tree of Angels

Second Annual Domestic Violence Display Kops and Kids

TRAININGS FACILITATED

Strangulation Exam Training (Conducted by SANE from GRMC)

Crisis Center Training

Citizens Police Academy Training

CASE STATISTICS

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION

The Criminal Investigation Division of the New Braunfels Police Department oversees all criminal investigations for the agency. The division is comprised of detectives who specialize in processing crime scenes and conducting interviews with victims, witnesses, and suspects. To maintain a high level of expertise, the division is organized into specialized units, including Person Crimes, Property Crimes, and the Street Crimes Unit. These efforts are supported by professional staff, including crime scene investigators, crime victim liaisons, forensic analysts, and a crime analyst. Through this collaborative approach, the division effectively investigates complex cases, holds offenders accountable, and ensures justice for victims of crime.

2025 STATISTICS

2,033

601 CASES ASSIGNED

971 INTERVIEWS (SINCE APRIL) CASES SENT FOR PROSECUTION

2,184

7,742 COMPLETED CASES INCLUDING CLOSURES REPORTS REVIEWED BY CID

141 CAC’S FORENSIC INTERVIEW CONDUCTED BY DETECTIVES (BOTH COMAL & GUADALUPE)

103 ARREST WARRANTS (SINCE APRIL)

1,056 CASES PROVIDED VICTIM SERVICES

45 SEARCH WARRANTS (SINCE APRIL)

83 COMPUTER OR PHONE DOWNLOADS (SINCE APRIL)

Persons Crime Unit

The Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Person Crimes Unit of the New Braunfels Police Department is dedicated to investigating offenses committed against individuals, including murder, sexual assault, indecency with children, child abuse, family violence, and stalking. The unit is staffed by one detective sergeant, seven detectives, and two crime victim liaisons, all of whom focus on thoroughly investigating these serious crimes, ensuring victims receive the support they need and holding offenders accountable. The team of skilled investigators work diligently to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and build cases capable of withstanding judicial scrutiny.

Collaboration is a cornerstone of the Person Crimes Unit’s effectiveness. The unit actively partners with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to enhance investigations, share critical information, and leverage additional resources and expertise to address complex cases more efficiently. These partnerships are essential in the pursuit of justice, ensuring a comprehensive approach to solving crimes against individuals.

In addition to law enforcement collaboration, the Person Crimes Unit works closely with key community organizations, including Texas Child Protective Services, the Comal County Crisis Center, the Guadalupe Child Advocacy Center, and the Comal County Child Advocacy Center. These partnerships are critical in providing victims and their families with comprehensive support and resources, ensuring they receive necessary care during difficult times. By coordinating closely with these agencies, the unit fosters a unified response to person crimes, promoting community safety, well-being, and a supportive environment for healing and recovery.

Property Crimes Unit

The Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Property Crimes Unit of the New Braunfels Police Department investigates offenses involving crimes against property, which include robbery, burglary, theft, fraud and financial crimes, motor vehicle theft and unauthorized use of motor vehicles (UUMV), criminal mischief, and related offenses. The unit is comprised of eight detectives responsible for conducting follow-up investigations, recovering stolen property, identifying suspects, and preparing cases for prosecution.

The unit is comprised of one detective assigned to the Digital Forensics Unit who oversees electronic evidence and computerrelated crimes, one detective dedicated to UUMV investigations, and one detective specializing in fraud and forgery cases. The remaining detectives are assigned general property crime investigations, including burglaries, robberies, and vehicle-related thefts. The Property Crimes Unit works closely with regional stolen vehicle task forces, the Comal County Sheriff’s Office Digital Forensics team, and surrounding law enforcement agencies to share intelligence, identify crime trends, and coordinate investigations involving multiple jurisdictions. These partnerships allow the unit to leverage additional resources and expertise when addressing complex or evolving criminal activity. This collaborative approach enhances investigative effectiveness, improves case outcomes, and supports overall community safety within the City of New Braunfels.

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS

The New Braunfels Police Department’s SRO Unit consists of 11 officers and one sergeant who serves the New Braunfels Independent School District (NBISD). The primary responsibility of our School Resource Officers is to enhance safety and security within our schools while fostering positive relationships and strengthening the connection between law enforcement and students. School Resource Officers actively engaged with the community by participating in a wide range of initiatives, including Career Days, Toy Drives, Trunk or Treat, and the Special Olympics, while also supporting PTA meetings, Back to School events, athletic escorts, and the Blue Santa program.

In addition to assigning School Resource Officers, NBISD once again partnered with NBPD to deploy additional officers to enhance safety at elementary campuses. These officers implemented proactive safety protocols, including conducting exterior door audits, ensuring all access points were secure and properly maintained, and performing routine hallway patrols. Beyond campus security operations, NBPD also maintained a visible presence at NBISD sporting events, graduation ceremonies, and academic competitions, fostering positive and constructive relationships with students while reinforcing a safe environment across school activities.

CALLS FOR SERVICE

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Community trust, partnership, and support are essential to the mission of the New Braunfels Police Department, making community engagement a core value of the agency. In 2025, the Community Engagement Division continued to build meaningful relationships by hosting five major community events focused on crime prevention, public safety, and support for our community. The Kops and Kids Safety Picnic welcomed over 1,000 residents, featured 25 nonprofit vendors sharing safety information and local resources, and featured 100 bicycles and 70 scooters that were donated to kids within our community. The Back-2-School Supply Drive collected more than 2,000 school supplies for local school districts.

Our community hosted 79 neighborhood events during this year’s National Night Out, representing an 18% increase over 2024. This strong collective participation earned community-wide recognition for Outstanding Participation in “America’s Night Out Against Crime” from the National Association of Town Watch.

The department further assisted families through the Blue Santa program, distributing gifts to more than 243 children and supporting over 100 families. In addition to large-scale initiatives, New Braunfels Police Department participated in 25 career days; hosted 11 Coffee with a Cop events; delivered 42 crime prevention and safety presentations; attended 25 community meet-andgreet events; conducted a Citizens Police Academy for 25 participants; and completed 12 battery replacement events for the Project Lifesaver program.

STREET CRIMES UNIT

The Street Crimes Unit (SCU), operating within the Criminal Investigations Division, is primarily responsible for addressing narcotics and gang-related offenses and proactively combating crime throughout the community. The unit is made up of one sergeant, one corporal, three detectives, four uniformed detectives, and four task force officers.

The SCU combines investigative and patrol functions, with detectives not only investigating cases involving the sale, manufacture, or use of illegal narcotics, but also proactively addressing criminal activity that affects the safety and quality of life in our community. In addition to conducting criminal interdiction on our roadways, the team interrupts crimes in progress and apprehends dangerous fugitives. The Unit supports the entire agency with covert surveillance needs and special events. SCU works closely with local, state, and federal agencies to share intelligence, trends, and assist in investigations involving criminals who cross jurisdictions.

Our department has four task force officers assigned to three task forces in the area. One officer is assigned to the US Marshal Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, which focuses on violent high-level criminals in the region. When a particularly violent offender is sought, the United States Marshals Service assists in locating and apprehending the individual, regardless of where they may have fled.

Two Task Force Officers are assigned to the FBI Safe Streets Task Force. These detectives investigate crimes within the region involving transnational criminal organizations, as well as violent offenses committed by local gangs.

A fourth Task Force Officer serves with the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Task Force. This officer has primary responsibility for asset forfeiture while supporting cases originating in New Braunfels and throughout the region. The position conducts complex financial investigations involving money laundering, bulk cash smuggling, and cartel-related proceeds to identify and seize assets for both civil and criminal forfeiture. The officer coordinates closely with HSI, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, local partner agencies, and other federal entities to coordinate seizures and share intelligence in support of multi-agency investigations.

Enforcement & Seizure Summary

TRAINING & RECRUITING

The Professional Standards Division of the New Braunfels Police Department plays a vital role in recruiting, hiring, and facilitating professional development, policy development, and internal affairs investigations. Our dedicated team of sworn and professional staff ensures the department maintains the high standards mandated by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) and expected by our community.

We provide realistic, relevant, and reportable training through highly qualified in-house instructors as well as external vendors and resources. Our commitment is to deliver training that goes beyond basic instruction, meeting or exceeding TCOLE standards, and ensuring that officers and professional staff are fully prepared to provide outstanding service to those we serve.

Hiring and Recruiting Update – Calendar Year 2025

For calendar year 2025, the New Braunfels Police Department maintained 172 authorized sworn officer positions. The year began with 13 vacancies, resulting in a 7.6% vacancy rate. Throughout 2025, the Department experienced 10 additional separations, including three retirements, which represented 30% of total separations. To address staffing needs, the department conducted 13 recruiting events and four Peace Officer Applicant Testing sessions during the year. These recruitment efforts resulted in 64 qualified applicants, of whom 52 completed the testing process (81%).

As a result of their efforts, 16 officers were hired, representing a 30% hire rate from tested applicants and 25% of total qualified applicants. The number of hires equates to 9% of the department’s authorized sworn staffing, reflecting a sustained commitment to maintaining public safety staffing levels despite annual attrition.

As a 2025 goal, the training team outlined a two-year training schedule that aligns mandatory certifications, in-service training, and recertification requirements. This calendar supports proactive planning, balances workload across the year, and ensures staff remain compliant and exceed professional training standards.

TWO YEAR TRAINING SCHEDULE

PROPERTY & EVIDENCE

The Property & Evidence section of the Support Services Division has two full-time professional staff members and one part-time team member who carry out the functions of care, custody, and control of evidence and property for the New Braunfels Police Department. Over the course of 2025, the evidence room took custody of 7,266 items. Evidence technicians were responsible for multiple actions involving these items, including but not limited to checking out the items to detectives, property returns to owners, and submissions to the laboratory. Collectively, these activities resulted in 16,014 separate evidence transactions, with 3,296 items being processed out during the year.

In July 2025, the Property & Evidence section had its first full, independent inventory and audit of all items stored and maintained in evidence. A total of 88,125 items of evidence were physically verified within the evidence storage, resulting in a 99.96% accuracy rate.

The Evidence & Property Unit maintained a consistently high level of activity throughout 2025, processing 7,266 items submitted into intake and completing 16,014 total transactions. Monthly intake peaked in February (838 items) and September (824 items), while total transactions were highest in February (1,788) and May (1,792), reflecting sustained operational demands. Overall, the data demonstrates the unit’s significant workload and its critical role in supporting investigations and case management throughout the year.

7,266

838

16,014 ITEMS SUBMITTED INTO INTAKE

TOTAL EVIDENCE TRANSACTIONS

HIGHEST MONTHLY INTAKE (FEB) SECOND HIGHEST MONTHLY INTAKE (SEPT)

1,788

824

HIGHEST MONTHLY TRANSACTIONS (FEB) SECOND MONTHLY TRANSACTIONS (MAY)

1,792

RECORDS DEPARTMENT

The Records section of Support Services is composed of a records supervisor, a lead records clerk, an open records clerk, five full-time records clerks, and one part-time records clerk. The Records Department processed 8,619 reports, prepared 1,788 misdemeanor cases and 894 felony cases, and completed 7,958 valid incident submissions to the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). NIBRS is a nationwide crime data collection system administered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Uniform Crime Reporting Program (UCR). The New Braunfels Police Department generated over 70,000 incident numbers related to calls for service, traffic stops, and self-initiated activity from patrol officers.

The Records Section is responsible for processing all open records requests submitted to the New Braunfels Police Department. During the past year, the department has received 6,156 open records requests. One open records clerk handled more than 55% of these requests, processing a total of 3,408 requests.

The Records Division managed a substantial workload throughout 2025, generating over 70,000 case numbers and processing 8,619 reports. A total of 1,788 misdemeanors and 894 felony cases were submitted to the District Attorney’s Office, reflecting consistent case progression across offense levels. Additionally, 7,958 NIBRS submissions were completed and forwarded to the state, demonstrating the division’s ongoing commitment to accurate reporting, compliance, and timely case management.

70,000+

1,788

8,619 CASE NUMBERS GENERATED

7,958 NIBRS SUBMISSIONS TO THE STATE REPORTS PROCESSED

894 MISDEMEANOR CASES SENT TO DA FELONY CASES SEMT TO DA

CRIME SCENE UNIT

Crime scene technicians are responsible for the identification, collection, and preservation of physical evidence found at a crime scene. Our agency currently employs two technicians who maintain a consistent on-call rotation to ensure 24/7 coverage for major incidents. When deployed, they respond to process crime scenes by documenting the environment through photography and sketching, while assisting detectives in reconstructing the events of a crime. Their hands-on work involves gathering physical evidence and utilizing specialized laboratory techniques to process items for fingerprints, handle and secure firearms, and package biological samples to maintain a strict chain of custody.

During 2025, our agency gained access to the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), authorizing a trained crime scene analyst to submit fingerprint evidence directly into the system. Prior to obtaining AFIS access, latent fingerprint lifts collected from evidence or crime scenes were submitted to the DPS Crime Laboratory, with turnaround times typically ranging from six months to one year. With direct AFIS access, the agency is now frequently receiving fingerprint identifications the same day or within the same week of the offense. This capability has resulted in a significant operational impact, allowing for more timely suspect identification and improved investigative efficiency.

911 CENTER

The Dispatch Center serves as the frontline of public safety for the City of New Braunfels. Our dispatchers answer emergency and non-emergency calls, often from individuals experiencing crisis or distress, and must quickly assess each situation to determine the appropriate response. They coordinate police, fire, and EMS resources, manage radio communications, monitor the safety of our first responders, and provide life-saving instructions to callers when needed. Working in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment, dispatchers demonstrate exceptional multitasking skills, sound judgment, and professionalism. Their commitment to excellence ensures efficient response times, effective communication, and seamless coordination among all public safety agencies, making them an indispensable part of our city’s emergency response system.

Our 911 Center is composed of a 911 dispatch manager, four lead emergency dispatchers, and 15 full-time emergency dispatchers. Our emergency dispatchers are also heavily involved in community outreach programs, such as Kops and Kids. Working alongside dedicated volunteers and department personnel, the team helps organize and manage event logistics, coordinate participating vendors, and ensures all necessary resources are in place for a successful event.

CHAPLAINCY PROGRAM

The New Braunfels Police Department Chaplaincy is a 501(c)(3) volunteer organization dedicated to providing 24/7, year-round support to agency personnel and the community. In 2025, the Chaplaincy program demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the City of New Braunfels, with total volunteer service hours exceeding 8,500. This coverage was maintained through on-call rotation and participation in over 44 official events, including invocations, departmental ceremonies, and community events. In addition to volunteering their time and service in 2025, the Chaplaincy program contributed over $7,400 to the organization to supplement a variety of department initiatives. Supplemental funding for the Chaplaincy program was obtained through community fundraisers at Wassailfest and ‘Meet and Greet’ dinner events hosted at Jason’s Deli. These unified funding efforts provided the necessary resources to sustain the Chaplaincy’s various service and outreach programs throughout the year.

Chaplains served as role players in reality-based training for our department and assisted in our new hiring process, lending support to applicants in their journey to become police officers.

The Good Works fund utilized $1,600 in program funds to provide fresh snacks and hydration to officers assigned to weekend river assignments. The Chaplaincy sustained a high level of operational reliability throughout the summer months, successfully completing 29 scheduled weekend deliveries.

A major highlight of the year was the planning and implementation of two Faith & Blue events, the first of their kind in New Braunfels. Prior to these two events in 2025, no Faith & Blue initiatives had been conducted in the entire region between Austin and San Antonio. The New Braunfels Police Department partnered with La Iglesia Alba and Redemptive Grace Ministries to host the events, resulting in the establishment of lasting community relationships.

CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

The CPAAA is a non-profit organization, comprised of members from the community with a clear mission to support our agency and community. Through their generosity, they have supported the department by purchasing equipment such as drones, Automated External Defibrillators for the Patrol Division, metal art for the police building, and even a police K-9. The CPAAA members volunteer many hours of their free time to work with our agency and have been heavily involved with NBPD since their inception in 1997.

The CPAAA plays a vital role in fostering community spirit by managing every facet of the Police Department’s Blue Santa Program. Through their dedicated efforts to identify families in need and source and meticulously wrap presents, they transform the holiday season for many families in our community. Coordinating a massive delivery effort alongside local officers, the program successfully brought Christmas joy to over 250 children and provided essential support to more than 100 families in 2025. This collaboration is so much more than mere toy distribution, as it builds lasting bonds of care and mutual respect between the police department and the community it serves.

PEER SUPPORT

Administrator: David Blevins, Asst. Chief of Police

Director: Sabrina Gonzales, Senior Administrative Assistant

Sgt. Dominic Coronado | Det. Rebecca Krifka | Ofc. Simon Mora

Det. Matthew Burdick | Ofc. Brian Turner | Ofc. Lucien Braan

Ofc. Daniel Andrews | Ofc. Tony Harding | Ofc. Alexandra Jackson

Rhiannon Ivy, Dispatcher | Trina Boskat, Crime Scene Investigator

Virginia Strawser, Dispatcher | Priscilla Drozd, Crime Victims Liaison

New Braunfels Police Department is committed to safeguarding the mental health and emotional well-being of all employees, both sworn and professional staff—confidentiality serving as its foundational principle. The Peer Support Team consists of department personnel who have received specialized training in peer support practices and who collaborate with mental health professionals experienced in working with emergency service personnel in response and training environments.

Peer Support is not a substitute for professional counseling, as team members are not licensed mental health providers and do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions. Rather, the program is designed to provide a trusted support system to assist employees in addressing personal and professional challenges while promoting their physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Peer Support offers educational materials and resources to enhance awareness and understanding of peer support services and serves as a liaison between employees and the department to identify and connect individuals with available resources. Additionally, the program develops, implements, and maintains a comprehensive Peer Support training program to ensure continued effectiveness and sustainability.

PST DIRECTOR ATTENDING TRAVIS HOWZE POST TRAUMATIC PURPOSE

FIRST RESPONDER SUPPORTING PARTNERS EVENT

THE WOUNDED BLUE CONFERENCE

AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS

DEPARTMENT AWARDS

LIFESAVING AWARD

MERITORIOUS SERVICE AWARD POLICE COMMENDATION

This award signifies an officers immediate and decisive action that saved a life that would not have survived without their intervention.

This award honors an individual distinguished by outstanding achievement and exceptional service beyond the ordinary scope of duty.

Cpl. C. Ashby

Ofc. J. Chenault

Ofc. S. Davenport

Ofc. H. Lima

Ofc. M. Kuhl

Ofc. J. Munguia X3

Ofc. S. Lackey

Ofc. M. Martin

Ofc. E. Flores

Ofc. M. Carrillo

Ofc. D. Andrews

Ofc. D. Kimbrell

Ofc. A. Rose

Ofc. K. Jarzombek

Cpl. J. Airola

Ofc. W. Greene

Ofc. A. Ogle

Ofc. S. Alvarez

Det. Cpl. J. Meier

Det. Cpl. D. Woelfel

Ofc. S. Aquino

Sgt. J. Mahoney

Det. Cpl. R. Groff

Det. Cpl. D. Schroeder

Ofc. E. Cuellar

NEW FIELD TRAINING OFFICER

Ofc. M. Martin

Ofc. H. Hope

Ofc. M. Carvalho

Ofc. K. Stonerock

LETTER OF RECOGNITION

Sr. Dispatcher B. Cooper

CVL L. Sargent

Cpl. M. Morales

CSA Ylina Bernal

Ofc. D. Andrews

This award identifies officers who distinguish themselves through exceptional performance over time or a specific cited action warranting special recognition.

Ofc. M. Allison

Ofc. D. Charo

Ofc. Z. Guidry

Det. S. Onofre

Det. D. Salas

Ofc. N. Warren

Det. A. Gonzalez

Cpl. Z. Kory

Sgt. D. Coronado

Det. T. Crawford

Cpl. C. Ashby

Ofc. E. Perez

Ofc. H. Lima

Det. Cpl. R. Groff

Ofc. C. Ashby

Ofc. A. Ogle

CSI Trina Boskat

Ofc. L. Martinez

INTERMEDIATE LICENSE

Ofc. S. Alvarez

Ofc. S. Davenport

Ofc. T. Harding

Ofc. L. Martinez

Ofc. A. Williams

Ofc. J. Chinni

Ofc. T. Ehrig

Ofc. M. Kuhl

Ofc. C. Mueller

Ofc. M. Crabb

Ofc. J. Garcia

Ofc. R. Lara

Ofc. J. Munguia

Ofc. M. Carillo

Ofc. D. Henderson

ADVANCED LICENSE MASTER LICENSE

Ofc. J. Allison

Ofc. J. Burns

Ofc. D. Henderson

Cpl. Z. Kory

Ofc. C. Turi

Ofc. K. Cecil

Ofc. Z. Menser

Ofc. Z. Guidry

Ofc. L. Braan

Ofc. M. Carvalho

Lt. J. Hobbs

Ofc. M. Lemmon

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TRAINING

Asst. Police Chief D. Blevins - FBI National Academy

Sgt. D. Coronado - FBINAA Leadership Forum

ADVANCED EDUCATION

Det. M. Burdick

Sgt. T. Criss

Ofc. D. Kimbrell

Cpl. T. Powell

Ofc. R. Coronado - Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from McMurrey University

Cadet J. Romero - Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from Texas State University

Cpl. C. Ryan - Masters in Public Administration from University of Phoenix

LEADERSHIP TRAINING

Sr. Dispatcher B. Cooper - Civilian Leadership Level One

CANDICE RIDGE VIRGINIA STRAWSER

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

OFFICER JACK KUHL

OFFICER OF THE YEAR

CRIME SCENE ANALYST YLINA BERNAL

CHIEF’S AWARD PROFESSIONAL STAFF

PROFESSIONAL STAFF OF THE YEAR

DETECTIVE EUGENE PEREZ

DETECTIVE OF THE YEAR

STREET CRIMES CORPORAL EVAN POWELL

CHIEF’S AWARD SWORN STAFF

OFFICER MATTHEW FASELER

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

SERGEANT GREG WALKER

SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR

SERGEANT CHRIS SCOTT

ANDREW KEMPKER AWARD

SWORN PROMOTIONS

NAME PROMOTION

DATE

Hector Parra Sergeant February 2025

Jerryd Airola Corporal February 2025

Deb Cunningham Lieutenant June 2025

John Mahoney Sergeant June 2025

Brian Onofre Lieutenant September 2025

Peter Carollo Lieutenant September 2025

Justin Rogers Sergeant October 2025

Michael Smith Sergeant October 2025

Colten Ashby Corporal October 2025

Jose Morales Corporal October 2025

Daniel Salas Corporal October 2025

PROFESSIONAL STAFF PROMOTIONS RETIREMENTS

OFFICER BURNS SERGEANT MALLETT

VETERANS WALL

MILITARY

RESERVISTS

DAVENPORT

PATROL SFC - USAR

HOPE

CORPORAL GROFF CORPORAL MEIER

RYAN

JETTON

REMEMBERING THE LIFE & LEGACY OF

SERGEANT ANDREW (ANDY) KEMPKER

On January 2, 2025, the New Braunfels community lost a true hero and an extraordinary human being. Sergeant Andrew Kempker passed away after a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind his devoted wife, Kelly, and their two children, Haylie and AJ. Throughout his 21-year career, including 16 years with the New Braunfels Police Department, Andrew embodied the very heart of community policing. He dedicated his life to serving others and approached every call, every shift, and every interaction with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right. His service spanned multiple roles including patrol officer, traffic officer, community liaison officer, and patrol sergeant. In each position, Andrew demonstrated his versatility, leadership, and deep-rooted belief in giving back.

Andrew’s sense of humor was one of his most defining traits. He had an uncanny instinct for finding humor in everyday moments, often at the expense of his colleagues and friends. Despite his many accomplishments, he remained profoundly humble. He never boasted about his achievements. Instead, he elevated others by encouraging them, supporting them, and celebrating their successes before his own.

As dedicated as he was to the community, Andrew’s greatest devotion was to his family. The demands of police work brought long hours, late nights, and extended shifts, but they never hindered his commitment to being a present and loving husband and father. Even when exhaustion set in, he made every effort to be there for the moments that mattered and often sacrificed sleep to ensure he never missed time with the people he cherished most.

Andrew possessed a rare gift, the ability to turn a stranger into a friend within minutes. His warmth, sincerity, and effortless approachability left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. These qualities made him not only an exceptional officer but also a remarkable human being whose compassion resonated far beyond his uniform.

Today, the memory of Sergeant Andrew Kempker continues to resonate throughout the New Braunfels Police Department and the wider community. His absence is deeply felt, but his influence remains. As we move forward, we strive to honor Andrew’s legacy by embodying the values he lived by. We strive to treat others with dignity, serve with heart, and remember to find joy and laughter each day.

While the actions and accomplishments of Sergeant Andrew Kempker can never be matched, his legacy remains as a guiding light for future generations of officers. His example reminds us of what it truly means to serve, lead, and live with purpose. We miss you, Andy.

To honor and preserve his legacy within the New Braunfels Police Department, this year the agency established the Sergeant Andrew Kempker Award, presented annually to a team member who exemplifies Andy’s dedication to service and commitment to others.

In the words he frequently shared with those around him, “Loveyou,bye.”