Meet the Officers

Christopher Filidei, Chief of Police

Christopher Filidei, Chief of Police

Chief Christopher Filidei was sworn in as the first Hitchcock ISD Police Chief in August 2018. He helped to create and now leads the department, ensuring the safety of over 2,200 students and staff at Hitchcock ISD schools. With 18 years of law enforcement experience, Filidei began his career with the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office, where he supervised the School Liaison Division.

He has earned an Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice from College of the Mainland, a bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement Leadership, and is currently working towards his master’s degree. Filidei holds several prestigious certifications and licenses, including Master Peace Officer, Firearms Instructor, National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Practitioner, Mental Health Officer, Hostage Negotiator, Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Instructor, and Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) Instructor.

Additionally, he has received the FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award and graduated from the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas Leadership Command College (LEMIT LCC), one of the nation’s premier law enforcement management programs.

Chief Filidei extends his safety expertise to local child care facilities and parochial schools, assisting school districts in starting their own police departments. A proponent of community involvement, he supports and participates in various law enforcement-based children’s charities and is an active member of the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals of The Mainland organization.

Born and raised in Galveston County, Chief Filidei continues to reside there with his wife Jessica and daughters Ellie and Presley.

Ryan Zuniga, Police Officer

Ryan Zuniga, Police Officer

Officer Ryan Zuniga joined Hitchcock ISD Police Department in 2020 after serving two years with the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office. Officer Zuniga has earned her Intermediate Peace Officer certificate, School-based Law Enforcement as well as numerous other certificates. She has recently begun serving as a field training officer for new hires. She takes pride in helping others and continuously educating herself on new and ever changing safety issues and brings them to our students, staff and community.

Shelby Samuelson, Police Officer

Shelby Samuelson, Police Officer

Officer Samuelson joined the Hitchcock ISD Police Department in 2022 after serving the La Marque Police Department where he gained 14 years of extensive experience, progressing through roles from Patrolman to Detective and up to supervisory positions like Corporal and Sergeant. His educational background includes a Bachelor's degree from Stephen F. Austin State University, which is complemented by several professional certifications such as Master Peace Officer and School-based Law Enforcement Officer certificates.

Recently, Officer Samuelson achieved the prestigious FBI LEEDA Trilogy Award, underscoring his commitment to continuous professional development and excellence in law enforcement leadership. He is actively involved in professional organizations like the Texas Association of Accident Reconstruction Specialists, demonstrating his dedication to staying abreast of advancements in his field.

Officer Samuelson's goals highlight his focus on fostering positive relationships within the Hitchcock ISD community, emphasizing collaboration between students, staff, and local residents. His advocacy for lifelong learning reflects his belief in ongoing improvement and adaptation to better serve and protect the community he serves.

Calvin Harp, Police Officer

Calvin Harp, Police Officer

Officer Harp has joined the Hitchcock ISD Police Department after spending five years with the La Marque Police Department. In his time with LMPD, Officer Harp served as a patrolman before being promoted to the rank of Corporal.

In addition to his patrol duties, Officer Harp has earned his Advanced Peace Officer certificate, his Mental Health certificate, has an Associates Degree, and has also served as a Field Training Officer. He is passionate about crisis intervention, de-escalation and believes that mental health training is integral to a police officer's duties and success.

Lauren Beck, Police Officer

Lauren Beck, Police Officer

Officer Darling has joined the Hitchcock ISD Police Department after spending six years in Law Enforcement. Prior to joining the department, Officer Darling worked for League City Police Department as a Patrolman. In addition to her patrol duties, Officer Darling developed interest in DWI cases and obtained several specialized DWI certificates. Officer Darling recently received her Intermediate Peace Officer License and is currently working to obtain her Advanced Peace Officer license. Her goal is to connect and foster good relationships between the Hitchcock ISD Police Department and the community she serves.

Vincente Gonzalez, Police Officer

Vincente Gonzalez, Police Officer

Officer Vicente Gonzalez became a member of the Hitchcock ISD Police Department in 2023, following a dedicated three-year tenure with the La Marque Police Department. During his tenure with the La Marque Police Department, Officer Gonzalez served in various capacities, including as a patrolman, Community Policing Officer, Recruitment team member, and Oral Board interviewer, showcasing his versatility and commitment to public service.

Officer Gonzalez has demonstrated his commitment to professional development by obtaining an Intermediate Peace Officer certificate and completing his Associates Degree. His pursuit of excellence continues as he is currently working towards attaining a Bachelor's Degree.

With a passion for community engagement and a dedication to his role, Officer Gonzalez eagerly anticipates the opportunity to serve as a mentor to students within Hitchcock ISD. His commitment to both his profession and the community he serves is a testament to his unwavering dedication.

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