Area Law Enforcement Travel to Uvalde
Aransas Pass Police Department
ARANSAS PASS - On Thursday, May 26, a request from the Texas Police Chief's Association came down for officers to assist Uvalde public safety. The area is dealing with an influx of media, politicians, and public safety issues resulting from the horrific shooting at Robb Elementary. Harbor Safety & Enforcement Officer Jack McCarty and Detective Troy Poe immediately responded to the request, along with a few additional officers.
"Given the situation, it's amazing to see a community come together and support each other. A nearby church camp stepped up to provide 200 beds with food and snacks to support the operation. Many community members also stepped up to ensure the EOC was always stocked with food and drinks for the officers in the operation. The citizens of Uvalde continuously showed their gratitude to all the officers involved. My heart continues to ache for all those affected by this event. You remain in my prayers."
HS&E Officer Jack McCarty
Public safety often has to pool resources and work together during major disasters and crises across the State and sometimes even across state lines. Individually, some events will be too great, so working together around the State is vital.
Upon their arrival, Aransas Pass Police Department (APPD) officers coordinated with Dilley PD staff and their Chief of Police.
The following day approximately 25 more Peace Officers arrived to assist in Uvalde. Officers assisted with the Governor's security detail, security at Robb Elementary school, security at the Uvalde Civic Center, and duties of the emergency operations command center.
APPD officers & TCOs primarily worked with EOC staff to coordinate the response of 217 officers from 73 different agencies throughout Texas and Oklahoma. Emergency operations are one of our officers' specialties, having operated several EOC situations, both actual and simulated.
During APPD's time in Uvalde, the needs of the community were great, and the resources were stretched. For example, for President Biden's visit, the US Secret Service requested approximately 75 officers to assist in the security detail and motorcade route. Additionally, during that event, officers had to provide security for about 30 locations in the area.
On Sunday, the APPD officers and TCOs were relieved by fresh troops and prepared to return to Aransas Pass by the end of the day. Again, APPD staff reported being able to assist immensely during this event. They likewise took away an experience that will undoubtedly help evolve our public safety efforts here at home.
The recovery and security efforts in Uvalde continue to this date.
