In a statement on Wednesday, city officials said Hester joins Bellaire from the Texas Department of Public Safety, with 30 years of public service experience.
"I am honored to have been selected as Bellaire's next Chief of Police and look forward to working with the outstanding men and women of the Bellaire Police Department while becoming a meaningful part of this exceptional community," Hester said.
This announcement comes after previous Bellaire Police Chief Onesimo Lopez retired in December 2025 after an internal investigation that placed him on paid administrative leave for several weeks, according to officials.
ABC13 first reported on the internal investigation that began on Nov. 20. Lopez was suspended with pay on Nov. 24, with city officials only saying the matter does not concern public safety and has no effect on police services. Sources said it was initiated after Lopez reportedly contacted an outside agency to investigate some of his command staff.
SEE ALSO: Bellaire Police Chief's suspension to be discussed at council meeting, city documents show
Lopez joined the Bellaire Police Department in 2019 after 24 years at the Pearland Police Department. Lopez was promoted to chief in 2021.