CapMetro Transit Police Chief leaving for job in Houston area

AUSTIN (KXAN)-- CapMetro Transit Police Chief Eric Robins has accepted a new position near Houston as the Chief of Police for Alief Independent School District. His departure is anticipated to be in July.

After three years of dedicated leadership, Robins was “instrumental in helping build CapMetro’s Transit Police Department," said a press release from CapMetro on Tuesday. Robins "guided the agency through the development, certification and launch as part of the agency’s larger public safety program," the release said. The department was certified by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) in 2024.

According to CapMetro, under his leadership, the department now has an assistant chief, captain, two sergeants, nine officers and a crime analyst/records manager. The captain, sergeants and officers were sworn in June 2025 and began patrols shortly thereafter. Robins was hired in 2022.

“Chief Robins' vision and dedication were critical in the successful launch and certification of our Transit Police Department,” said Dottie Watkins, president and CEO of CapMetro. “We wish him well in his next endeavor, and CapMetro remains steadfast in our commitment to public safety.” 

CapMetro’s assistant chief, Joseph Rose, will serve as interim police chief, said the release. 

Rose was hired by Robins in 2023 and has extensive background in both transportation and policing. The release continued to detail Rose’s accomplishments including: 

• Starting law enforcement with the Metro Transit Police Department in Washington, D.C.
• Continued his career at the newly created City of Bowie Police Department in North Texas in 2007
• Rose is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and has attended various leadership programs

“I am grateful to CEO Watkins, and Chief Safety Officer Gardener Tabon, for their confidence in me to lead the department during this transition period,” said Rose. “I want to assure the public that there will be no disruption to the service we are here to provide. We will continue to help keep our transit network secure, recruit top talent, and engage the community each step of the way.”  

CapMetro will soon begin a nationwide search for its next permanent police chief.