Troy Finner has officially been sworn in as the new police chief of the Missouri City Police Department, marking the start of his leadership with a standing-room-only ceremony attended by elected officials, law enforcement and community members.
The swearing-in ceremony, held Monday evening at the Missouri City Community Center, drew such a large crowd that attendees lined up outside to enter, underscoring strong community interest in the department’s new leadership.
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Missouri City Mayor Pro Tem Lynn Clouser, who served as master of ceremonies, described the event as a “momentous occasion” and highlighted the significance of the role in shaping the city’s future in public safety.
City Manager Angel Jones said Finner was selected following a nationwide search that drew more than 50 applicants. She said the city prioritized finding a leader with the experience and judgment to move the department forward while maintaining accountability and public trust.
Finner was formally sworn in by Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt, taking the oath of office alongside family members who joined him on stage for the ceremony.
In remarks following the oath, Finner thanked city leaders, law enforcement colleagues and his family, and emphasized his commitment to community-focused policing.
“My number one goal and priority is fighting violent crime,” Finner said. “But you do it in a way, best practices around the nation, building partnerships and trust.”
Finner also stressed the importance of community relationships, officer wellness and investing in youth programs, urging leaders not to cut resources for young people.
“Don’t cut back on the youth. They need us,” he said.
Speakers throughout the ceremony pointed to Finner’s decades of experience and leadership style centered on visibility, trust and engagement.
Houston Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum, who has worked alongside Finner, said his approach to policing goes beyond enforcement.
“It’s about relationship. It’s about trust. It’s about people,” she said.
Finner previously served as Houston police chief after being appointed by then-Mayor Sylvester Turner in 2021. He retired from that role in 2024.
Missouri City officials have said they conducted a thorough review of Finner’s background before selecting him to lead the department.
Mayor Elackatt said the city expects Finner to strengthen trust between officers and residents while advancing community-focused policing.
“With Chief Finner now leading Missouri City, I’m confident we will continue to strengthen that trust and raise the bar for excellence,” Elackatt said.
The ceremony ended with a reception and opportunities for community members and media to meet Finner, marking the beginning of what city leaders described as a new chapter for public safety in Missouri City.