I hate to tell you this, but racial preferences within HPD have been a problem since at least 1991, and probably before. I know of two white male applicants who were flatly told that they were "the wrong race and sex to be considered at this time". This, of coarse, from the recruiter "off the record".
Back in 1991-1992 I was considering applying with HPD. At least until I found from my two friend's experiences that I need not apply.
Texas Department of Public Safety also has similar issues. Another friend of mine applied with them for 7 years in a row, and wasn't hired until after he retained a lawyer and records that he had consistantly outscored less qualified members of one of the many "protected classes" that were of coarse hired on the spot. The threat of a lawsuit was enough to get him through the door, but I can only imagine how many superior's "lists" he might be on.
The perpetual lowering of standards to accomodate racial hiring quotas has a negative effect where ever it is applied. I can only refer to what I have seen in the military and in law enforcement, but we all know the same applies in the private sector as well. The thing that really boggles me is how minorities targeted for favoratism don't get outright offended by these policies. I mean, they seem to insinuate that minorities cannot test or perform at the same levels as others, and if that's not racist what is?
Aggie1,
Yes, the likely outcome of a pursuit terminating within HPD's jurisdiction, and with a significant HPD presence is likely to result in a prisoner's injury. The cameras in the helicopters have curbed it somewhat, but the fear of other agencies bordering HPD remains that they will be left with an injured suspect and nothing but HPD tail lights in sight. I know its always on my mind if someone is evading towards Houston, but thankfully the feared result has never materialized.
Saleen