10/23/2026
I want to thank Chief Gary Boshears for his transparency with the community regarding the Brenham Police Department’s ALPR audit process and the recent internal investigation.
When this technology came before City Council, I asked specific questions about data ownership, access controls, search justifications, and most importantly, regular audits to catch misuse. Chief Boshears committed to those safeguards, including mandatory quarterly audits of ALPR searches.
The department’s own policy required those reviews, and the process worked as designed: activity identified during a routine audit led to an immediate internal investigation, placement of the officer on administrative leave, and a request the same day for a separate investigation by the Texas Rangers. The internal review concluded on October 14, and the results have been shared publicly.
That is exactly the kind of accountability I have said is necessary if any law enforcement agency is going to use tools that collect vehicle location data. I have consistently supported the Brenham Police Department and the officers who serve our community. I have also been clear that technology alone is not enough, strong written policy, limited access, a legitimate law enforcement purpose for every search, audit logs, and real consequences for violations are what protect both public safety and public trust.
Chief Boshears followed the department’s procedures, kept the internal investigation independent of the outside review, and communicated the outcome to residents. I appreciate that follow through. Responsible use of these tools depends on exactly this kind of oversight and openness, and the department demonstrated it here.
Regarding requests for records under the Texas Public Information Act, materials related to an active investigation, particularly one involving another agency, are generally not releasable while the matter is ongoing. The department has shared the process and outcome publicly and notified affected individuals as appropriate.
I remain committed to supporting our police while ensuring any technology the City uses stays under local control with meaningful accountability. Thank you, Chief, for the transparency and for delivering on the audit process you described.
A Message from Chief Boshears
Brenham Police Department | ALPR Audit and Investigation Process Follow Up
The Brenham Police Department recognizes the importance of keeping our community informed about department operations, policies, and procedures. I would like to share some additional information about our Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) audit process and the timeline of the recent internal investigation.
As part of our regular oversight procedures, department policy requires quarterly audits of searches conducted through our ALPR systems. These audits involve reviewing records to ensure compliance with department policy and identifying any activity that may require further review. These comprehensive reviews take time, and potential concerns may be identified at any point as the audit progresses. This process is one of several measures in place to support responsible use of department technology.
During a regularly scheduled audit, department personnel identified activity on Friday, September 4, that warranted additional review. The information was promptly reported through the chain of command to my attention. That same day, I initiated an internal administrative investigation and requested a separate investigation by the Texas Rangers. The officer involved was also placed on administrative leave, according to department and city policy. The department's internal investigation began September 4 and concluded October 14, 2026. This administrative review was conducted independently of the outside investigation requested through the Texas Rangers.
Internal investigations involve a careful review of the available facts and circumstances. Depending on the nature of the matter, this process may include reviewing records, examining digital information, conducting interviews, and documenting findings. These steps help ensure that decisions are based on a complete and accurate review of the information available. The officer remained on administrative leave throughout the investigation.
Our department has established policies and procedures to guide the conduct of our personnel and provide appropriate oversight of department operations. When concerns arise, it is important that they are reviewed carefully, consistently, and in accordance with those procedures. We value the trust our community places in the Brenham Police Department and recognize the responsibility that comes with serving the public. We will continue working to maintain that trust through professionalism, accountability, and open communication.
