Waco, TX – A former Waco Police Department officer, 24-year-old Rene Martinez, has been indicted by a McLennan County Grand Jury for tampering with physical evidence. The alleged actions occurred while Martinez was employed with the department and were described by Waco PD as falling far short of the agency’s standards for integrity, ethics, and professionalism.
An internal investigation began on July 26, 2025, and Martinez was placed on administrative leave with pay. A criminal investigation followed on August 1 after potential violations were identified during a prior investigation.
The allegations stem from an April 2025 incident at Waco Regional Airport, where Martinez recovered a firearm but failed to log, document, or store it properly. Investigators determined that the weapon was never transferred to the Waco Police Department Property Room. The findings were presented to a Grand Jury, resulting in Martinez’s indictment.
The investigation also found that Martinez violated department policy, falsified a government document, and failed to follow body-worn camera procedures. Martinez resigned from the department on August 28, 2025, amid the ongoing investigations. Waco PD stated that, had he remained employed, his actions would have led to termination.
Chief Sheryl D. Victorian emphasized that the department does not tolerate such behavior, noting that the professionalism and vigilance of other officers ensured accountability and reinforced the department’s commitment to integrity and public trust.
