San Antonio Park Police Demand Formal Recognition, File $25 Million Lawsuit

SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Park Police Officer Association has escalated its fight for recognition, formally demanding acknowledgment in an amended lawsuit against the city.The association, representing over 150 park and airport police officers, is seeking $25 million in damages, along with legal rights and benefits mandated by state law.

Park Police officers are responsible for law enforcement across San Antonio’s extensive park system, encompassing over 18,000 acres, including iconic locations like the Riverwalk and Hemisfair. These officers possess the same jurisdiction and authority as the San Antonio Police Department and frequently collaborate with SAPD officers on calls and public safety initiatives.

“For over 15 years, the men and women of the Park and Airport Police have served side-by-side with San Antonio Police officers-answering calls, protecting the public, and putting their lives on the line,” stated association president Henry Bassuk. “It’s time the City of San Antonio recognizes them as the police officers they are and honors the rights and benefits they’ve earned under Texas law.”

This legal action follows the city’s declaration of plans to merge park and airport police units into the main Police Department,a consolidation the association claims has been in advancement since 2008. Despite this integration, the park officers’ association asserts that its members have not yet received full recognition or compensation in accordance with state law.

The City of San Antonio has been contacted for comment regarding the lawsuit and has yet to issue a response.