LPPD’s Officer Nick’s heartwarming act of kindness on Day 5 of the 12 Days of Christmas.

12 Days of Christmas

Chapter 5: Officer Nick then arrived at a small apartment where a young boy peered up at him with a shy smile. The boy had been bundled in a worn-out sweater, his eyes sparkling with joy. Officer Nick handed him a carefully wrapped box. “A toy train! Just like I wanted!” the boy exclaimed, his face lighting up EVEN MORE. Officer Nick’s heart swelled as he watched the boy hug the box to his chest, feeling a warmth that had nothing to do with the holiday lights twinkling around them or the giant Christmas tree at Five Points. Each door he knocked on, each smile he saw, filled him with a growing sense of joy. Something within him was starting to change.

To be continued….

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LPPD Officer Nick’s 12 Days of Christmas is moving along as he learns the true meaning of love and family.

12 Days of Christmas

Chapter 4: Officer Nick continued on his route. He went to multiple other homes passing out gifts. As a well trained officer would do, he implemented his police tactics at every home he went to. When he arrived at a home, he would arrive quietly and observe to scope out any potential dangers before approaching. However, he didn’t find any dangers. Instead, he was able to see the families he was going to give gifts to sitting together in their living room or dining room. Some homes had Christmas trees and lights, some didn’t. But one thing stayed the same, he could see the family members enjoying their time together- laughing, playing games, and telling stories. You see, because of all of the overtime, Officer Nick never got to enjoy shared moments like these with his own family. He knew at this moment he needed to make a change.

To be continued…

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Find out what LPPD Officer Nick surprises the next lucky child with in Chapter 3 of the 12 Days of Christmas saga.

12 Days of Christmas

Chapter 3: Officer Nick, dressed in his Blue Santa suit, began his journey. He knocked on the first door. Inside, a little girl with wide, hopeful eyes answered. Her cheeks were rosy from the chill, and she gasped when she saw the officer holding a shiny red bike just for her. “Is this for me?” she asked, her voice full of wonder. Officer Nick nodded, and as she hugged the bike tightly, he felt a warmth spread through him. This was a feeling he had not felt before. “That was strange.” He thought to himself. He shook it off and continued on about his route. “Just 35 houses to go…” he sighed.

To be continued…..

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Chapter 2 LPPD Officer Nick experiences in the next chapter of the 12 Days of Christmas.

12 Day of Christmas

Chapter 2: As Officer Nick arrived to work, he went through the same routine he always does. The patrol sergeant was briefing the incoming officers of the events of the night before and gave district assignments to the on-duty officers. After briefing, he requested a volunteer for this year’s Blue Santa program, a program that focuses on passing out gifts to those in need. “Any volunteers?” he asks. Crickets … “If no one volunteers, I will be forced to pick someone.” Said the Sargent. ..crickets…. “Alright, that’s it. Officer Nick, you’re up.” said the sergeant. “Well that’s just great.” Officer Nick groaned. “I don’t even like Christmas. That’s the only reason I have to work these extra shifts!” Little did he know his life was about to be changed forever…

To be continued…

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You won’t believe what happens when Officer Nick’s grumpiness meets the magic of the holiday season in La Porte’s 12 Days of Christmas story.

La Porte Police Department presents the second annual 12 Days of Christmas story. This short story was created to bring awareness to the Blue Santa Program. The Blue Santa program focuses on bringing hope and joy to families during the Christmas season. This program provides gifts for children who are residents of La Porte or La Porte ISD students.

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Chapter 1: This Christmas story begun a long, long time ago in a small city by the water named “La Porte”. Our story originates in the city police department, in the Patrol Division. Meet Officer Nick. Officer Nick is well known as the grumpy officer of the division. “Out of sight, out of mind” is how most people handled him. That worked for the most part. However, during the holidays he was grumpier than ever. You see, during the holiday season, Ofc. Nick regularly picked up overtime to pay for his family’s Christmas. Overpriced vacations, decorations, and gifts – all of that needed to be paid for somehow. “I hate this time of year” he sighed as he put on his duty belt for yet another 12-hour shift. To be continued…..

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See heartwarming info from La Porte Police Department’s 2nd annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ event – spreading holiday cheer.

Media Relations Information for December 13th, 2024
Public Relations Officer – Assistant Chief John Krueger
Office: 281-842-3161

La Porte Police Department hosts 2nd annual Shop with a Cop event

On Tuesday December 10th, La Porte Police Department (LPPD) hosted its 2nd annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ event at their neighboring Deer Park Walmart. The program is a result of the joint partnership between the La Porte Police Officers’ Association, the La Porte Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association, and the law enforcement motorcycle club Blue Knights of Texas VII.

For this year’s event, ‘Shop with a Cop’ participants took ten local children shopping for various items on their wish list. The children were each selected from a program known as The Angel Tree. The Angel Tree, organized by LPPD’s Crime Victim Liaison Shaye Lister, is intended to help families who may need a little extra help for the holidays.

Before kicking off the shopping spree event, LPPD Chief of Police Scott Pullig welcomed the families, recognized the attending Walmart employees, and then expressed thanks to the Officers, jailers, and dispatchers who each partnered up with a child. Pullig also commended the La Porte Police Officers Association and the La Porte Police Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association for their generous contributions which made the entire event possible. At the event’s conclusion, the children checked out at the cash registers, and the Blue Knights club treated families to hot chocolate, cookies, and treats.

Shop with a Cop is just one of the many ways LPPD strives to help their community embrace the Christmas season. If you have any questions regarding the Department’s various outreach programs, please contact the agency at 281-842-3123.

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LPPD cracks down on impaired drivers during the season.

Media Relations Information for 12/10/2024
Public Relations Officer – Asst. Chief Bennie Boles
Office: 281- 842-3114

LPPD Focuses Efforts on Impaired Drivers
During the Holidays

During the Christmas and New Year holidays, the La Porte Police Department (LPPD) will participate in the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) Impaired Driver Mobilization (IDM) program. The program’s enforcement period is from December 13, 2024, through January 1, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. through 6:00 a.m. During this period, officers on paid overtime will actively pursue those who chose to drive while impaired.

TxDOT’s Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (S.T.E.P.) campaigns are designed to reduce both motor vehicle collisions and the residual effects incurred by motorists. The programs have consistently been proven to reduce injuries, fatalities, and property damage along major thoroughfares and at high collision/high-density intersections. Residents are reminded to drive safely while taking comfort in knowing additional traffic enforcement officers are monitoring local roadways to increase safety. For more information on La Porte Police Department’s involvement in the State’s various S.T.E.P. programs, please contact LPPD at 281-842-3115 and follow us on Facebook at @LaPortePoliceDepartment.



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Meet La Porte Police Department’s Blue Santa. Who tracks the naughty and nice, and spreads holiday cheer like never before.

This month’s spotlight on a member is our one and only, Blue Santa!

Blue Santa has been a part of the La Porte Police Department since 2011. Blue Santa began as just an idea, many, many years ago. However, throughout the years the idea developed, and shortly after became a reality. December 2011 Blue Santa was dispatched to the City of La Porte and his duties officially began.

Blue Santa arrived just in time to receive this year’s orders from Chief Pullig. His responsibilities include keeping track of the “naughty and nice” list, reading and receiving letters from kids, sleigh operation, and spreading Christmas spirit. As Christmas Day approaches Blue Santa, the La Porte Police Officers Association, and the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association team up to tackle their biggest task of the year, distributing gifts to Blue Santa Program participants.

When he’s not working, Blue Santa enjoys caring for his reindeers, judging snowball fights between his elves, and hanging out with Mrs. Blue Santa by the fireplace.

Blue Santa has been an incredible asset to the La Porte Police Department and the La Porte Police Officers’ Association. His dedication to spreading joy has made an impact on many residents of The City of La Porte.

Thank you, Blue Santa, for all that you do!

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LPPD: Fatal auto-pedestrian collision this morning about 5:45am details on the investigation.

Media Relation Information for December 4, 2024
Public Relations Officer – Asst. Chief Bennie Boles
Office: 281-842-3114

LPPD Investigates Fatal Auto Pedestrian Collision

On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at approximately 5:45 a.m., the La Porte Police Department (LPPD) received a call for an auto-pedestrian collision in the approximate 3300 block of Underwood Road.

La Porte Police, Fire, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) units were quickly dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, it was immediately discovered that the unidentified male was crossing the roadway and was struck by a single vehicle traveling southbound. The pedestrian was transported by air medical to a regional hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

The preliminary investigation revealed the male pedestrian unlawfully entered the crosswalk, passing in front of a vehicle lawfully using the roadway. The driver of the vehicle was unable to see the pedestrian due to the time of morning and lighting conditions. When the collision occurred, the driver immediately stopped, called 911, and cooperated with the investigation. No charges are expected to be filed.

The LPPD Crash Reconstruction Team is conducting a full investigation, including the pending report from the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office.

 

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LPPD Detective Breeding is set to change crime-solving in La Porte with a her polygraph certification.

Media Relations Information for November 19th, 2024
Public Relations Officer – Assistant Chief John Krueger
Office: 281-842-3161

La Porte Police Detective Completes Rigorous Polygraph Examiner School

As of Friday, November 15th, the La Porte Police Department has gained another fully certified polygraph examiner.

LPPD Detective Ashley Breeding spent the past 10 weeks in Austin attending the Texas Department of Public Safety Law Enforcement Polygraph School, where she completed 400 hours of training in polygraph examination.

Known in movies and other media as “lie detector tests,” real-life law enforcement agencies use polygraphs to test a person’s various physiological responses to certain questions. While the polygraph tests administered for employment and other processes are shorter, criminal polygraph examinations can span multiple hours. Because of this, certified administrators must be very well-trained and versed in the process.

Breeding will now become LPPDs second polygraph examiner, as La Porte Chief Scott Pullig is currently retaining his position as the agency’s lead polygraph examiner while Breeding hones her skills.

“The Texas Department of Public Safety Polygraph School is a nationally renowned program, and their curriculum is both informative and intense,” said Chief Pullig. “Detective Breeding is taking on a significant role for our organization, and her work will aid the La Porte community in many inconspicuous ways. We are extremely proud of her and are confident she will do great things with her certification.”

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Tragic accident in La Port off W. Fairmont and Canada turned into a fatal accident in.

LPPD Investigates Fatal Single Vehicle Collision
On Sunday, November 17, 2024, at approximately 10:00 a.m., the La Porte Police Department (LPPD) received a call for a single vehicle collision, at the W. Fairmont and Canada Road intersection.

La Porte Police, Fire, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) units were quickly dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, it was immediately discovered that the driver, an adult male, was deceased. There were two juvenile passengers who were transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The preliminary investigation indicates, the adult male driver of a white two door passenger vehicle, was traveling west bound on W. Fairmont when he lost control of the vehicle after he accelerated in an attempt to beat a red light. Due to the roadway conditions, he left the roadway and collided with the traffic signal pole on Canada Road. The driver was pronounced deceased on scene. Detailed information on the occupants are being withheld to allow for family notifications.

The LPPD Crash Reconstruction Team is conducting a full investigation which will include the pending report from the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office.

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If you recognize this shoplifting 🤡 LPPD Sgt. Plemons would like to speak with you.

LPPD is asking for help identifying a shoplifting suspect. The theft occurred during the Noon hour of November 5, 2024, at Smooking located at 8610 Spencer Hwy. Ste: M. The suspect seen in the images is approximately 5’ 10” tall with slim build, and appears to be in his late teens to early 20’s. He is believed to reside in the nearby area as he arrived and fled on foot. If you have information as to who the male in the images is, please contact Sgt. Plemons at 281-842-3159 or by email at [email protected]. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

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LPPD Officer Lee Pinon recognized as Officer of the Year for lifesaving bravery during hurricane Beryl.

Officer Lee Pinon was awarded Officer of the Year by the Cortez/Norris American Legion Post 319. Officer Pinon was selected as Officer of the Year due to his heroic efforts during Hurricane Beryl.

On July 8th, 2024, Officer Pinon was clearing a commercial vehicle that had overturned on the Fred Hartman Bridge due to heavy winds. While crossing the bridge, another commercial vehicle flipped on its side. The driver was hanging half out of the truck- his upper body dangling over the concrete wall, clinging to a yellow cable for dear life. Despite the extremely dangerous conditions including heavy winds, gushing diesel and engine fluids causing for slippery conditions, Officer Pinon managed to pull the driver to safety, ultimately saving the driver’s life.

This well-deserved award is a testament to Officer Pinons strength, bravery and commitment to serving others. This is only one example of Officer Pinon going above and beyond the call of duty. We are proud to have him within our force. Congratulations, Officer Pinon.

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In loving memory of LPPD retired K9 Huligan. A loyal guardian of La Porte.

Today, the La Porte Police Department mourns the loss of retired K9 Huligan. Officer Barry Groaning and Huligan dedicated eight years to the K9 division of the La Porte Police Department where, together, they took countless narcotics off the streets. In 2018, Groaning and Huligan competed in the National Narcotic Detector Dog Association competition and brought home a 2nd place trophy. Huligan also earned the prestigious Bark, Bandit, Trooper Award that same year. After retirement, Huligan was a devoted part of the Groaning family and served as a gentle companion. Huligan protected and served the La Porte community admirably, and he will be sorely missed. To his family, he was more than a K9 partner—he was a loyal friend, a guardian, and a constant source of joy. Thank you, Huligan, for your service, loyalty, and devotion to your family and our community. 🖤💙🐾

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Heroes in action. Pedro Ortega and Arturo Vasquez save a young life in La Porte.

On September 12, 2024, Pedro Ortega, a construction worker, spotted a small child, Azreal Andress, floating face down in the water while conducting a briefing. Concerned for the child’s safety, Ortega swiftly jumped in to rescue him. Arturo Vasquez, a postal worker, witnessed Ortega’s frantic actions and immediately called 911, despite not knowing how to perform CPR. Under guidance from dispatch, Vasquez focused on compressions while Ortega provided rescue breaths. Their collaborative efforts revived the child, who regained color and began breathing independently. Azreal was later hospitalized and discharged safely without lasting effects. Ortega and Vasquez’s bravery and quick thinking earned them the Life Saving Award, showcasing the profound impact one individual can have in a crisis. Their actions embody the spirit of community and selflessness.
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Pedro Ortega and Arturo Vasquez, Life Savers

On the morning of September 12, 2024, Pedro Ortega was working at a construction site and conducting a briefing with fellow workers when he spotted a small child wandering in the grass. He returned to the briefing, but afterward looked for the child and realized he was no longer in sight. Ortega inquired of his coworkers about the child’s whereabouts, but no one had any information. Concerned that they would be operating large equipment in the area, Ortega began to search for the child. He went to the playground near the shoreline and, when he reached it, he saw the child floating face down in the water. Without hesitation, Ortega rushed in to rescue him and then ran toward the street with him.

Arturo Vasquez, a postal worker, had just finished delivering mail when he spotted a drenched Ortega running to the street, carrying a lifeless child who was also soaking wet. Without hesitation, Vasquez jumped out of his vehicle and called 911 while rushing over to assist Ortega. The child, Azreal Andress, appeared to be blue around the mouth, was not breathing, and had no pulse. Although Vasquez was unsure of how to perform CPR, he felt compelled to try. Guided by the instructions from the La Porte Police Department Dispatch, he began compressions. Working together, Vasquez focused on the compressions while Ortega gave rescue breaths. Andress was also turned to his side to help expel the water from his mouth in between sets of compressions and breaths.

During the third set of compressions and breaths, the color returned to Andress’s mouth, and he began to move slightly – he was breathing independently and had a pulse again. Shortly after, the La Porte Fire Department and La Porte EMS arrived, provided care, and called for Life Flight. Andress was taken to Hermann Hospital and was discharged within a week, with no lasting effects from the near drowning.
It’s truly an honor to recognize the selfless actions of Pedro Ortega and Arturo Vasquez this evening. Their bravery and quick thinking truly made a difference during a crisis, ensuring that Azreal Andress is safe and here with us. This award not only acknowledges their heroic deeds but also serves as a reminder of the impact that individuals can have in moments of urgency.

On behalf of the La Porte EMS, Fire, and Police Departments, we extend our deepest gratitude to these two heroes. Thank you, Pedro and Arturo, for your courage and dedication to helping others. Your actions exemplify the spirit of community and selflessness that we all aspire to embody. Congratulations on receiving the Life Saving Award!

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LPPD salutes our heroes on National First Responders Day.

NATIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS DAY

October 28th sets aside National First Responders Day to honor the men and women who act quickly when an emergency is at hand.

First responders dedicate their lives to save lives. They are the people who run toward a crisis, while the rest of the world flees.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, 4.6 million career and volunteer first responders support the communities where they live.

They are police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMT), paramedics, 911 operators and other first response personnel. In an emergency, they’re the first on the scene. These dedicated professionals answer the call when a crisis arises, often putting their own lives on the line.

Please join us in thanking all our area first responders!!!!


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LPPD: Ensuring safe golf cart driving for La Porte’s kids.

In recent months, several La Porte residents have expressed concerns about children driving golf carts in an unsafe manner. In most cases, juveniles are often unfamiliar with basic rules of the road, driver courtesy, and the overall safety required for operating. As La Porte Police Officers make contact with teen and pre-teen drivers, their initial intent is to enforce existing state laws to a certain degree, but, moreover, avert possible future misfortunes.

It is legal for a licensed driver to operate a City of La Porte registered golf cart on a public street. Registration packets are available at La Porte City Hall (604 West Fairmont Pkwy). Once registered, golf carts may be driven on a public roadway where the posted speed limit is no more than 35 mph. However, operation is only legal during the daytime. For more information regarding golf cart usage and registration, please contact the La Porte Police Department at 281-471-2141. Additionally, should you witness any acts of poor driving, adult or child, please contact the police department as well.

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Artistry with heart: Bid on Olivia’s beautiful painting made for the heroes at the Back the Blue BBQ Festival.

Thank you Olivia for the beautiful artwork you’ve created!

Check out this amazing artwork!

This one of a kind piece was crafted by Olivia with the Southeast Trio. If you are interested in it, you’re in luck! Olivia graciously donated her work to be auctioned off in the silent auction, tomorrow at the 2024 Back the Blue BBQ Festival. Be sure to come by and check it out.
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Unite in purple with LPPD for Domestic Violence Awareness Day on October 17th.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Each October domestic violence organizations coordinate and participate in local, state, and national events promoting advocacy and raising awareness. Purple Thursday is one of those events!

We invite you to wear PURPLE on Thursday, October 17th, also known as Domestic Violence Awareness Day, because we all have a role in promoting healthy relationships and building a healthy community.

Join us on #PurpleThursday and use wearing purple as a conversation starter and share why ending domestic violence is important to you.

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Deer Park and La Porte get in on the Back the Blue Festival to support your local heroes on October 19th.

Hey Deer Park & La Porte!

We’re in the home stretch! The Back the Blue Festival is scheduled for October 19th! If you’d like to show support for our community heroes, it’s not too late! You still have an opportunity to donate to our silent auction. We are accepting donations of new items, gift certificates, gift cards, gift baskets, or any items you feel that would help to “BACK THE BLUE!”

You can also support the cause by showing up at the event. You’ll have a chance to get some amazing items at our silent auction, have some fun, get some awesome BBQ and support our local DPPD and LPPD! The event will take place at the Jimmy Burke Activity Center located at 500 W. 13th St. Deer Park, Texas, 77536, from 10AM-5PM! Hope to see you there!

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LPPD welcoming their newest protectors joining the crew as Probationary Police Officers.

Congratulations to all three-brand-new Probationary Police Officers (PPO’s). The cadets graduated tonight from the 86th Basic Police Academy with Pasadena Police Department. They will soon be sworn in by Chief Scott Pullig and will begin an extensive training phase with certified Field Training Officers from the La Porte Police Department.

The graduates completed the Civil Service Entrance Exam process, which hires the prospective officers, send them to a local certified academy, and then trains the PPOs in Department processes over the next six months.

Pictured: Lt. Matt Novosad, Assistant Chief John Krueger, Chief Scott Pullig, PPO Erica Hinsaw, PPO Jorge Delgado and PPO Kristian San Luis.

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LPPD is racking up candidates who took the first step towards joining the team.

Thank you to the 24 applicants who came out to take the La Porte Police Department’s Civil Service Exam. This exam is the first step in becoming a police officer for the City of La Porte. Those who passed will move on to the physical fitness portion of the process over the next few days.

We wish you all the best of luck in your journey to join our team!

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United against silence, LPPD is raising awareness for National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This month, we stand together to raise awareness, support survivors, and work towards a future free from domestic violence. If you or someone you know falls victim to domestic violence, resources are available. Get help by contacting 9-1-1. You may also call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline at www.thehotline.org.

May we continue to raise our voices for those who can’t.


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Video: LPPD is searching for a 🤡 who ripped off a ladder from Coupland Signs on S 5th St.

Please review the attached video of a theft suspect. The suspect stole a 16- to 30-foot adjustable ladder with a green rope that possibly has “Coupland” written on it valued at $500 from Coupland Signs on S 5th St. The suspect is seen arriving on foot and leaving on foot and there is no vehicle information so it’s possible the suspect lives locally. The business owner does not know who the suspect is.
If anyone recognizes the suspect or knows the whereabouts of the taken property, please contact the La Porte Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division at 281-842-3173 and reference case # 24-02183.

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