Port of Galveston security officer arrested, placed on administrative leave, police say

GALVESTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Authorities say a Port of Galveston officer has been placed on administrative leave following his arrest.

Philip Tamayo is currently employed by the Port of Galveston as the facility security officer, according to Chief of Police Kenneth Brown, who did not provide details about the officer's arrest or charges.

"The Port of Galveston is aware of his arrest by the Galveston Police Department on criminal charges. At this time, the Port has no additional information regarding the criminal case, as the investigation is being handled by the Galveston Police Department," Brown said in a statement.

According to the agency, Tamayo served as an officer with the Port of Galveston Police Department from 2002 until 2024. He then left the department to become the Port's facility security officer.

Officials said Tamayo is on administrative leave pending the investigation and added that they cannot comment on the allegations.