Robin Henderson has dedicated nearly 27 years to the Austin Police Department (APD), rising through the ranks from patrol officer to interim chief of police. Her journey began in 1997 when, as a single mother, she moved to Austin with her young son, starting a career that would see her serve in various roles, including field training officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and eventually chief of staff.
In August 2023, following the retirement of Chief Joseph Chacon, Henderson was appointed as interim chief of police. During her tenure, she prioritized addressing staffing shortages, launching a reserve officer program, and focusing on staffing the 911 dispatch office. Despite her achievements, Henderson announced she would not seek the permanent chief position, choosing instead to retire once a new chief is appointed, aiming to spend more time with her family.
Henderson's leadership is notable not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her role as a woman of color in law enforcement, a field where women are underrepresented. She has expressed a commitment to advocating for communities of color and serving as a role model for women in the force.
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