The Houston Area Police Chiefs Association (HAPCA) was founded in 1988 as the Harris County Area Chiefs of Police Association. As the organization’s role and reach expanded beyond Harris County, its name evolved to better represent the broader law enforcement community it serves throughout the Greater Houston metropolitan region. On May 25, 1989, the Texas Secretary of State formally recognized the Association’s Articles of Incorporation. From its beginning, HAPCA was organized for charitable and educational purposes, with a commitment to advancing the interests, professionalism, and effectiveness of law enforcement throughout the region.
Today, HAPCA brings together law enforcement professionals from nine counties across the Greater Houston area, including police chiefs, sheriffs, command staff, and officers representing municipal, county, state, and federal agencies, as well as colleges and universities, transit authorities, medical centers, school districts, and other specialized law enforcement agencies.
HAPCA promotes cooperation and collaboration among law enforcement agencies while providing opportunities for professional development, education, information sharing, and peer networking. By bringing together leaders from agencies across the region, the Association helps strengthen relationships, share best practices, and advance excellence in policing.
Our mission is to promote and enhance the professional development of senior executive and management personnel within law enforcement agencies throughout the Greater Houston metropolitan region. HAPCA is committed to professional excellence by fostering a strong network of experienced law enforcement leaders representing the diverse agencies that serve the region.
Through collaboration, education, and the exchange of knowledge and best practices, we strive to uphold the highest standards of performance, professionalism, and accountability while strengthening the agencies and communities we serve.