Rio Hondo to launch search for new chief

RIO HONDO — For the second time in little more than a year, the city will launch a search for its top lawman after Police Chief Humberto Barrera resigned, officials said Thursday.

Barrera, who was hired in June 2009, resigned earlier this month to take a job as an investigator with the Cameron County District Attorney’s Office.

Barrera, who drew a salary of $36,000, left for better pay and benefits, officials said.

“I’m sorry to see him go. But I can’t blame him, with the way the economy is and the way the city doesn’t provide retirement benefits,” City Commissioner Gloria Barrientos said.

Commissioner Gerald Hartzog said city officials will meet to launch a search for a police chief.
“I hate to lose him,” Hartzog said. “He did a good job for us.”

In June 2009, commissioners hired Barrera, who had served as a Precinct 4 deputy constable since 2003.

Barrera replaced longtime Police Chief Sam Martinez, who was fired in March 2009.

The previous City Commission fired Martinez for failing to disclose that he held a second job at a
Pizza Hut.

Barrera could not be reached for comment.