Houston Metro Police names new chief

Houston Metro announced it has appointed Houston Police Captain Victor Rodriguez to head up its police department.

The agency serves more than 10,000 bus stops, 29 Park & Ride lots, 19 Transit Centers, nearly 90 miles of HOV lanes, the Main Street Line and, in the near future, three additional light-rail lines now under construction.

"My goal and desire is to make Metro's police department the premiere transit law enforcement agency in the country," said Rodriguez, who will be leading a department of about 220 personnel. "I want to make it more responsive to the community. I want people to feel as safe and secure on our buses and trains as they do riding in their own cars."

Rodriguez started his career with the Houston Police Department in 1985. He currently leads its North Division, overseeing a force of more than 300 sworn officers.

Rodriguez is expected to start his new post as chief later this month.