The Houston Police Department confirmed it is investigating the videos, which were initially shared with a limited audience, though Instagram's 'Close Friends' feature, but later circulated more widely.
In the clips, a woman is seen speaking directly to the camera, using racial slurs and making offensive statements about Black people, including comments suggesting they "deserved slavery." In another video, the woman appears to describe using her role as a police officer to target Black individuals during calls for service.
HPD's Public Information Unit said the department is aware of the videos and that the case has been referred to Internal Affairs investigators.
Officials identified the officer under investigation as Ashley Gonzalez, who has been with the department since January 2024 and was assigned to the South Gessner Patrol Division. The department confirmed Gonzalez has been relieved of duty pending the outcome of the investigation.
ABC13 has not independently verified that the person in the videos is Gonzalez.
Houston City Councilmember Abbie Kamin said she was "extremely disturbed" by the remarks, adding they do not reflect the values of the police department or the city.
A retired HPD captain who previously led the department's training division said the videos were shocking and troubling.
Dr. Greg Fremin said the department uses a rigorous vetting process for recruits, evaluating mental and physical fitness, as well as character.
"They're looking for how candidates handle stress, anxiety, and anger," Fremin said, noting that some cadets do not make it through training due to concerning behavior.
Fremin added that it is especially concerning to see someone in a position of authority threaten to abuse that power based on race.
"The vast majority of the men and women who wear this uniform are honorable people ... who want to do great things in this community," he said. "So this hurts us all."
ABC13 reached out to Gonzalez for comment, but has not received a response.