Galveston Island Beach Patrol Chief Peter Davis fired after series of ‘back-to-back’ investigations

Beachgoers leave the beach Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020, in Galveston, Texas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) (David J. Phillip, Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

GALVESTON, Texas – Galveston Island Beach Patrol Chief Peter Davis’ employment was ended by interim CEO Marty Miles on Tuesday following a series of back-to-back investigations.

The investigations were concerning beach patrol operations regarding Davis’ leadership of the department. According to a release, Davis updated policies and procedures related to topics such as contracting and procurement, conflicts of interest, personnel management, and safety and hospitality.

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Interim CEO Miles also deemed a change in leadership to be appropriate and necessary under the circumstances.

“It is never an easy decision to remove an employee. Let me assure you, every factor was taken into account,” Miles said, “but my number one priority at the end of the day is to have the right person overseeing the program that is responsible for the safety of every person who visits our beaches.”

Austin Kirwin, a 14-year veteran of Galveston Island Beach Patrol, is currently serving as interim chief. In that role, he will oversee a team of experienced leaders that will ensure lifeguarding services and beach patrol programs continue uninterrupted.

“The Park Board is committed to protecting the residents and visitors who swim in the Gulf and will ensure resources are continued to be placed into this vital program. Galveston has one of the top beach patrol programs in the country and it is important to residents and visitors that it remains strong,” Miles said.


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