City of Houston, TX
04/24/2026 | Press release | Archived content
Mayor John Whitmire's Statement on Termination of HPD Officer
Mayor John Whitmire's Statement on Termination of HPD Officer
City of Houston Has Zero Tolerance for Racism
April 24, 2026 -- Mayor John Whitmire released the following statement regarding the termination of Houston Police Officer Ashley Gonzalez:
"The comments in the video recorded by former Houston Police Officer Ashley Gonzalez are outrageous and reprehensible. I was shocked and deeply disappointed to hear a Houston police officer use such foul and offensive language.
"Her actions do not reflect the values of our city or the Houston Police Department, nor the standards we expect from those sworn to serve and protect our community.
"Let me be clear: this behavior is unacceptable. I applaud HPD Chief Diaz for suspending Gonzalez when the department became aware of the video and firing her as soon as the state civil service process allowed.
"Let this incident serve as a warning to all City of Houston employees. There is zero tolerance for racism in my administration, and if you see it, report it immediately.
"I ask all Houstonians to rededicate ourselves to human rights and respect for others."
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