27 Apr 2006
John Blackburn was chief of police in Houston ISD
DALLAS—Dallas Independent School District Superintendent Michael Hinojosa has announced the selection of John B. Blackburn as Chief of Police for the district beginning May 15.
"The vast knowledge, expertise, professionalism and experience Chief Blackburn brings will be an asset to the department," said Hinojosa. "His proven record of leadership will ensure the department will move forward successfully."
As Houston ISD Chief of Police, Blackburn headed a 260-person municipal-style organization which included patrol, a K-9 unit, campus operations, training and investigation, gang intervention and a special response team. Additional units included a substance control program and the schools' crossing guards. Under Blackburn's leadership, Houston became the first school district police department in the United States to receive national accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.
"I'm certainly looking forward to coming to Dallas," said Blackburn. "I'm impressed with the superintendent's vision for the district and look forward to making a contribution to the department."
Blackburn held the post of assistant chief of police in the city of Sugar Land in 1999 and was assistant chief of police for the Houston ISD from 1994 to 2000.
He was with the Houston Police Department from 1970 to 1993. As sergeant of the juvenile division of the Houston Police Department from 1984 to1993, he was responsible for managing the city's juvenile crime reduction programs. From 1978 to 1981, Blackburn maintained joint responsibilities as district sergeant in charge of 25 officers on patrol and as field training sergeant overseeing 21 field training and probationary officers assigned to a high crime area.
From 1976 to 1978, he served as instructor within the Houston Police Cadet Academy and the Field Training Officer's School. He began his career in law enforcement as a patrol officer in 1970.
Chief Blackburn holds a master's degree in criminal justice/management from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from the University of Houston. He is an FBI National Academy graduate.