this Houston Police Department (HPD) fired officers Ashley Gonzalez A video that went viral on social media showed her making racist comments. HPD confirmed Friday that Gonzalez “is no longer an employee of the department,” adding that the department holds officers to the “highest standards of integrity and conduct.”
The department said she was relieved of her duties immediately following the incident and an internal investigation was conducted “as soon as lawfully possible” under the Civil Service Act.
Viral video sparks investigation
In several videos shared on Instagram, Gonzalez is seen speaking to the camera while sitting in her car, using derogatory remarks and racial epithets directed at African Americans while discussing an incident that occurred while she was off-duty. She reportedly said she “feels good” about making racist comments about black people.
She said, “I will always and forever say I hate n******. Oh my gosh, I hate you guys. Like I hate you guys, I didn’t know we were slaves, that’s not to say I don’t care why you guys are slaves.”
Gonzalez also admitted in another video that she used her status as a law enforcement officer to target African Americans.
Initially, Gonzalez was placed on leave and asked to turn over her badge and firearm while the department verified the video and conducted an investigation.
Read more: Ashlee Jenae Cause of Death: How did the Miami influencer die? Latest updates
Zero tolerance position and possible next steps
City officials supported the decision to terminate Gonzalez, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy against racism in public services. Houston Mayor John Whitmire called the comments “outrageous and reprehensible” and supported the department’s swift action.
Police Chief J. Noe Diaz Jr. also strongly condemned the behavior, saying, “Ashley Gonzalez’s actions were abhorrent, disgusting and completely unacceptable,” adding that the behavior was “deeply disturbing and has no place in law enforcement or in our community.”
However, under Texas law, fired officers can appeal to the Civil Service Commission, which has the authority to review disciplinary actions and reinstate employees in certain circumstances, according to the city of Houston.
