HOUSTON, TX — A Houston police officer has been reassigned and is under internal investigation after allegedly pulling a firearm on a man during a personal dispute involving her sister’s cell phone.
According to reports, the off-duty officer confronted a man she believed had possession of her sister’s phone. Witnesses say the confrontation escalated when the officer drew her service weapon in an attempt to force the man to return it. No injuries were reported, and the phone was ultimately recovered.
Houston Police Department officials confirmed that the officer, whose name has not been released, has been reassigned to administrative duties while the Internal Affairs Division investigates the incident.
In a statement, HPD emphasized that the department holds its officers to the highest standards, both on and off duty:
“We take these allegations very seriously. The conduct displayed in this incident does not reflect the expectations we set for our officers. An investigation is ongoing, and appropriate action will be taken.”
Community members have expressed concern over the officer’s decision to use her firearm in a non-threatening situation. Civil rights advocates point to the case as an example of why accountability and de-escalation training are critical in policing.
The officer could face disciplinary measures depending on the outcome of the investigation, ranging from suspension to possible termination.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.