My name is Justin Henderson and I have been with the Stephen F. Austin State University Police Department for 16 years. I was born and raised in Nacogdoches, which is the oldest town in Texas.
During my 16 years at SFA PD, I have become a Field Training Officer, Rape Aggression Defense Systems Self Defense Instructor, IMPBA Patrol Bicycle Instructor, Firearms Instructor and was a member of the Nacogdoches County SWAT team. I have been honored to serve many roles within the department; Patrol Officer, Bicycle Patrol Officer, Evidence Custodian Assistant, Physical Fitness Coordinator, Patrol Corporal, and I am currently Patrol Sergeant. To continue to build connections within our local law enforcement partners and community members, I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and have obtained my Master Peace Officer and Mental Health Officer License.
Here at the Stephen F. Austin Police Department, Police Chief John Fields Jr. encourages and supports community engagement within our campus and the City of Nacogdoches. He believes the mission of this department is to provide a safe environment to all students, staff, and guests through respectful, fair, and equitable policing. I also believe in our departments mission and have encouraged my officers to serve the community to their best abilities; we strive to provide excellence.
In addition to my policing duties, I have had the pleasure of assisting my fellow officers obtain the Texas Police Chiefs Association Accreditation Program and The International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators license. I also introduced the Police One online training program to our department, where our officers now have 24 access to TCOLE training. I have also worked together with several officers within my department to contribute to our community. Detective Adame and I host an annual "Cops on Top" Memorial Hike and a Memorial Bike Ride for fallen officers. I was an instructor in the Stephen F. Austin Citizens Police Academy led by Corporal Mask. But my most favorite, I have recently become a liaison for the Special Olympics of Texas. I volunteer to actively participate and assist Special Olympics Athletes during their events in East and Central, Texas. Together with Lieutenant Kennedy, we are hosting a Special Olympics "Polar Plunge" event at SFA where participants will jump into freezing water, have fun, and all proceeds wilt benefit these Special Olympics Athletes to help with travel and other expenses.
I am married to my beautiful best friend, Amanda. We have two gorgeous children, Jackson and Blair, and another little boy on the way this Spring!
I will continue to serve the UT system and the Stephen F. Austin community to my best abilities with respect, pride, and dedication. I am honored to have been selected as Officer of the month and I give my thanks to my department that has provided so many opportunities to better myself and my community.
