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.
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.
Officer Marianna Gonzalez is proud to serve the Hitchcock ISD community. A recent law enforcement academy graduate, Marianna is beginning her career in law enforcement after previously working in Justice Court, where she gained valuable experience with both civil and criminal proceedings.
She is passionate about building positive relationships with students, staff, and families while helping create a safe, welcoming, and supportive school environment. Marianna believes communication, trust, and treating others with respect are essential to making a difference.
She looks forward to getting to know the Hitchcock ISD community and being someone students and staff can feel comfortable coming to when they need help, guidance, or simply someone willing to listen.
Outside of work, Marianna enjoys spending time with her family and is a proud mom. She looks forward to serving, growing in her new career, and making a positive impact throughout Hitchcock ISD.
In Memoriam: Chief Brian Daniel Rusk
October 9, 1978 – March 7, 2026
Chief Brian Daniel Rusk lived a life defined by service, strength, and an unwavering commitment to others. He began his law enforcement career in 2000, answering the call to serve with honor and dedication. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, ultimately serving as Chief of Police for Hitchcock ISD in 2025.
Throughout his career, Chief Rusk served as a Patrol Officer, Criminal Investigator, Sergeant, and Lieutenant. He was a respected leader, a skilled crisis negotiator, and a passionate instructor who trained hundreds of officers across Texas in mental health and crisis intervention. His impact extended far beyond his department, shaping both the officers he mentored and the communities they served.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Brian will be remembered for his character. He was steady, dependable, and strong—the kind of person others could rely on without hesitation. If he said he would be there, he was there. In the most difficult moments, he remained calm and grounded, always carrying his share and more. He led alongside others, not above them, and never asked more of anyone than he was willing to give himself. To those who knew him, he was more than a colleague—he was family.
Brian also brought a quiet light to those around him. His steady presence and easy laugh were a source of comfort, even on the hardest days.
His legacy is not defined by a single moment, but by a lifetime of loyalty, service, and the countless lives he touched. He found joy in the simple things—time spent with others, shared meals, conversations, and celebrations both big and small. To him, family meant everything.
Chief Rusk will be remembered for how he lived: showing up, standing strong, and being there when it mattered most.
