The Chicano Squad: A Story of Unity and Strength
HOUSTON — In 1979, amid rising homicides and tensions between the public and the police, the Houston Police Department saw the birth of a groundbreaking law enforcement group – the Chicano Squad.
A new two-part documentary is shedding light on the legacy of the Chicano Squad in the city’s history of policing and community relations.
Comprised of Hispanic officers, the Chicano Squad was tasked with building trust with the Spanish-speaking community in Houston and solving murders that had plagued the city. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, paving the way for stronger relationships and effective crime-solving strategies.
Original Chicano Squad members, including U.P. Hernandez, José Selvera, and Cecil Mosqueda, recently reflected on their experiences in an interview with KHOU 11 News. Their contributions, along with those of James “Jim” Montero, Raymond Gonzales, and Robert Gatewood, have left a lasting impact on the police department and the community.
The documentary, spearheaded by Latino talent and producers, highlights the squad’s 90-day pilot program, during which they achieved an unprecedented 80% clearance rate in solving murder cases.
Despite the challenges they faced, the Chicano Squad’s success paved the way for more diverse recruitment in police departments and emphasized the importance of community policing.
Through their unity and unwavering commitment to the community, the squad members formed a strong bond that sustained them through the toughest times on the job.
As Houston’s past is brought to light through this documentary, the Chicano Squad hopes to inspire a positive future for the city, particularly for young Latinos and Latinas who may see themselves reflected in their journey.
Don’t miss the premiere of ‘The Chicano Squad’ on Monday, Sept. 2 at 8 p.m., with the second part airing the following day.