Texas DPS Director Retires After 15 Years of Service

AUSTIN, TX — Colonel Steven C. McCraw has officially retired as the Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) after 15 years of service. McCraw, who has led the agency since 2009, left DPS Headquarters in Austin for the final time today.

Governor Greg Abbott praised McCraw’s leadership, calling him a “man of integrity” who played a key role in ensuring public safety in Texas. “Director McCraw’s legacy will live on for generations,” Abbott said.

State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and Public Safety Commission Chairman Steven P. Mach also commended McCraw for his leadership, noting his contributions in strengthening the agency and improving safety across the state. Mach highlighted McCraw’s work in making DPS a top law enforcement agency through collaboration with state leaders.

In his farewell remarks, McCraw expressed pride in his career, saying it had been the “greatest honor” of his life to serve as DPS Director. “I leave knowing the future of this department is in the best possible hands,” McCraw said.

During his time as director, McCraw oversaw major changes at DPS, including implementing a regional command structure and improving officer pay, recruitment, and equipment. He also focused on recruitment and training, with 3,144 recruits graduating from the DPS Training Academy under his leadership.

McCraw’s law enforcement career began in 1977 as a Trooper with DPS. He later worked for the FBI and returned to Texas in 2004 as the state’s Homeland Security Director before becoming DPS Director.

Earlier this week, employees paid tribute to Director McCraw as he left DPS Headquarters for one of the final times. Personnel from all divisions lined the drive, and aircraft flew overhead when he left campus. You can view that video here.

Director McCraw’s retirement announcement to staff along, with photos from his time at the department, are available here.

McCraw’s official last day as Director is November 30. The Public Safety Commission selected his successor earlier this month. Lt. Colonel Freeman F. Martin takes over on December 1 as the department’s 14th director and will be sworn in at an official ceremony at DPS Headquarters on December 2.