‘Get ready for 500 murders’

Houston, Texas HPD chief Art Acevedo made a grim declaration to the city of Houston on Tuesday: “Prepare for 500 murders,” Acevedo said during an afternoon press conference at HPD headquarters.

Acevedo admits his strategy to fight murders in Houston is not working, resulting in another record year for murders: “Get ready for 500 murders at the pace now.”

When KPRC 2 Investigates reminded Mario Diaz that the increase in murders is under his watch, Acevedo said, “Okay, it’s under my watch, Mario and I are gone, bring in the best chief, bring in every chief … but I have a prediction. “Amazed by his response, Channel 2 Investigates asked Acevedo,” But Miami says you’re the best chef? ” The question came as a result of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez’s statement on Monday, “I think this is like getting Tom Brady or Michael Jordan from police chiefs.”

Acevedoo’s response?

‘You know Mario, I’m done with you. Actually, I’m done with you for my life. Thank God.”

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Acevedo was in no mood to discuss tough questions about sky-high murders during his tenure. Houston has seen a rapid rise of more than 500 since the beginning of 2020, with some wondering if Acevedo’s departure to the much smaller city of Miami is just a cutback and run by the chef.

“Let me tell you something. First, crime isn’t the problem,” Acevedo said.

Acevedo then blamed the revolving door on the Harris County judicial system for nearly two minutes, blaming judges for the murders, claiming they were not working hard enough, and putting criminals back on the streets.

Having said this, there are two murders from Acevedo’s tenure that stand out the most. It is the shooting of Dennis Tuttle and Rhogena Nicholas by HPD in the deadly failed attack on Harding Street.

When asked how challenging it will be for Acevedo to leave Houston knowing Harding Street is unfinished? Acevedo said, “I’m coming back to Harding Street because it happened on my watch.”

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Watch the video below to hear Rhogena Nicholas brother John Nicholas speak about Acevedo’s departure.