After 15 years leading the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Colonel Steven C. McCraw has retired. On his last day at DPS Headquarters in Austin, McCraw bid farewell to personnel.

Governor Greg Abbott commended McCraw's service: "Director Steve McCraw has headed the Texas Department of Public Safety with integrity and dedication for the last 15 years," he stated. "I thank him for his exceptional service to the state and for always upholding the rule of law in our great state."

State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa praised McCraw’s leadership: “Colonel McCraw’s service as DPS Director set a high standard and exemplifies honor, duty, and leadership.”

Public Safety Commission Chairman Steven P. Mach highlighted improvements under McCraw's leadership: “DPS is the premiere law enforcement agency it is today in very large part because of his visionary leadership."

McCraw expressed gratitude, saying, “Serving as the Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety has been the greatest honor of my life.”

Under his tenure, DPS underwent significant changes including transitioning to a regional command structure and increasing pay for officers. Recruitment efforts brought 3,144 recruits through the DPS Training Academy into the Texas Highway Patrol.

McCraw began his career with DPS in 1977 before joining the FBI in 1983. He held various positions including Special Agent in Charge and Assistant Director of Intelligence. In 2004, he became Texas Homeland Security Director until appointed as DPS Director in 2009.

His retirement was announced earlier this year, accompanied by numerous awards recognizing his service. A video series titled “Honoring a Lifetime of Service” documented his impact on DPS over 15 years.

As he departed headquarters earlier this week, employees paid tribute by lining up along his route while aircraft flew overhead.

McCraw’s successor is Lt. Colonel Freeman F. Martin who will assume office on December 1st as DPS's new director.