My name is Georgia Gutierrez Reyes. I am originally from Phoenix, Arizona but have lived in Texas since 2010 and consider myself a true Texan at heart. I have been with The University of Texas Permian Basin Police Department since September 2022. I initially started my law enforcement career in 2017 with the City of Odessa. I attended the Odessa Police Department Police Academy and graduated in 2018. There I was afforded great Field Training Officers who helped shape the officer I am today. I was able to gain a lot of knowledge and experience working with this department. I am very grateful for my Sergeant at the time, Sgt. Eddie Vallejo who took the time to mentor me and guide me through a lot of situations I encountered. I would also like to thank my classmate and very good friend Ofc. Terry Wells.
I am currently still attending college with my major being Criminal Justice. I hope to be able to graduate soon with more knowledge to better serve my community.
My mother is from Juarez, Mexico and my father from Honduras. I am the fifth out of eight children and have four nieces and one nephew. I am the first and only Police Officer in my family. I know my family is very proud of who I am and the job that I do. I work very hard to always set the example and keep my family proud of me. I would like to thank them for always being so supportive of my career and always sticking by my side. I would also like to thank my best friend Crystal Rodriguez for also supporting me through my rocky journey.
Although I had already been a police officer before the August 31st active shooter situation, this event really strengthened the reasons why I became one in the first place. I observed how every agency around our city came in and lent a helping hand. I observed officers transporting victims, administering first aid, clearing buildings, following leads, protecting crime scenes and so much more. The way everyone was willing to place their life on the line to protect our community helped me see our purpose so much better. From that day on, I understood my purpose as a police officer and have loved it so much more.
I am very grateful for the opportunity Chief T. Hain and Assistant Chief M. Muehlbrad gave me when I came to work for UT. I am very proud to say what amazing command staff we have here at The University of Texas Permian Basin. I know here I am not just a number or boots on the ground. Chief T. Hain and Assistant Chief M. Muehlbrad work very hard to give us the best training and equipment possible. I would also like to thank my Sergeant, Sgt. V. Vasquez for having the patience and grace to work so well with me. Sgt. V. Vasquez is always there with me through thick and thin, chase or fight.
I would like to thank the Director M. Heidingsfield for this amazing opportunity of choosing me as a UT Officer of the Month. Finally, I thank God for my career and the amazing people I work with and for. I know without him I wouldn’t be who I am today.
