In the ever-evolving landscape of Houston’s transit safety, Chief Ban Tien of the METRO Police Department has emerged as a transformative force. A combat-tested U.S. Army veteran, former Houston Police Department officer, and now the top cop of one of the nation’s largest transit systems, Chief Tien blends military precision with heartfelt public service—rewriting the narrative of community policing in Houston.

In this exclusive Houston Style Magazine cover story, Chief Tien opens up about his leadership journey, the cultural rebirth of METRO PD, and how he and his team are redefining what it means to protect and serve across Houston’s buses, rail lines, and park-and-ride hubs.

🚨 From Battlefield to Boardroom

Chief Tien’s roots trace back to the beginning of his military career, where he served in the 1^st Cavalry Division to the frontlines in Iraq and Afghanistan during the Global War on Terror. That experience, he says, still shapes every decision he makes.

“The battlefield taught me discipline, sacrifice, and situational awareness—but most importantly, it taught me how to lead under pressure. Those lessons guide how I serve Houston today.”

“Also, one of the most important leadership values I carry from my time with the U.S. Army is loyalty, which requires my loyalty to our Constitution, the mission, the people I lead, and most importantly, the community I serve.  In both military and policing, loyalty represents a sense of duty, putting the needs of others before your own.”

🛠️ A Cultural Renaissance in Blue

Since assuming command, Chief Tien has led a quiet revolution within METRO PD—one rooted in accountability, transparency, and care.

“We’re shifting the culture. It’s not just about arrests; it’s about relationships. I tell my officers: if you see a uniform as armor, you’re missing the point. It’s a bridge.”

He implemented daily debriefings focused on community context, trauma-informed policing, and officer mental health. And the impact? A shift in public perception and an uptick in officer retention.

✅ Recruitment Mission Accomplished

While agencies across the country struggle with staffing shortages, METRO PD achieved full staffing under Chief Tien’s leadership.

“We hired not just resumes—but human beings with heart,” he says. “We created a culture people want to join—and stay in.”

METRO PD introduced holistic onboarding, mentorship pipelines, and career growth tracks—turning public safety jobs into lifelong public service callings.

🤝 Community Trust: Built One Interaction at a Time

One of the cornerstones of Chief Tien’s philosophy is reshaping the public’s perception of police—especially in underserved neighborhoods.

“You don’t build trust from a distance. You build it face-to-face. We’re in the community, not just on patrol.”

From hosting town halls to riding the bus alongside regular commuters, METRO PD is making its presence both visible and approachable.

“Under the new direction and philosophy of Metro Now, providing our riders with a safe, clean, reliable, and accessible transit experience, our Officers are working tirelessly to fulfill those commitments.  We are rebranding our image and moving beyond just responding to calls.  Instead, we ride the buses and trains, walk the platforms, and interact with our riders and operators.  We also partner with local law enforcement agencies in this region and non-governmental organization such as the Homeless Coalition to enhance our riders' and community safety.  In a city as dynamic as Houston, we know that trust has to be earned, and our Officers are planning on achieving it every day through consistent presence, honest conversations, and a deep respect for the people we serve.  This is more than policing; it builds relationships and transforms how our community sees us.”

🧭 Military Precision Meets Community Compassion

Chief Tien balances military structure with deep empathy.

“The Army taught me how to lead troops. My community taught me how to serve with love,” he reflects. “Now I lead both.”

💙 Policing with Heart—and Family

Both Chief Tien and his wife serve in law enforcement. Together, they’re raising their family on a foundation of duty and compassion.

“We live the values we hope to pass on: courage, kindness, and service. Our kids are growing up seeing what real teamwork looks like.”

🚉 Transit Policing with a Purpose

Transit policing is no ordinary beat—it’s dynamic, sprawling, and deeply connected to Houston’s identity.

“Our role isn’t just about security. It’s about making the transit system a safe space—especially for the elderly, students, and vulnerable riders.”

Officers are trained in conflict resolution, cultural sensitivity, and even basic social services referrals.

🌍 Diversity in Action

Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the country—and Chief Tien believes METRO PD must reflect that diversity.

“Diversity isn't a slogan—it's a strategy. A diverse department is a strong department.”

From multilingual recruiting efforts to deep engagement with immigrant communities, METRO PD walks the talk.

✊ AAPI Leadership with Purpose

As one of the few Asian American police chiefs in the country, Chief Tien carries his heritage with pride and purpose—especially during AAPI Heritage Month.

“Representation matters. If I can inspire even one kid from a refugee or immigrant family to dream big, that’s legacy.”

🌟 His Most Proud Moment

When asked about his proudest achievement, Chief Tien doesn’t hesitate.

“Launching the Community Ambassador Program. It’s about putting names and faces together—officers and residents working side by side.”

The program has already led to stronger community partnerships and a surge in public tips and cooperation.

🚀 The Final Word: Leading Houston Forward

Chief Ban Tien stands at the intersection of honor, duty, and hope. Under his watch, METRO PD is becoming a model for modern transit policing: one built on connection, credibility, and care.

“At the end of the day,” Chief Tien says, “it’s about making sure every Houstonian—no matter where they board the bus—feels seen, safe, and respected.”

🔗 For more on METRO Police Deprtment and community programs, visit www.RideMETRO.org