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The Universal City Police Department: Inside The Elite Force And The Controversial Cases Dominating 2025 Headlines

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The Universal City Police Department (UCPD) stands as the premier law enforcement agency committed to "excellence in service" for its engaged citizens in Universal City, Texas. As of late 2025, the department, led by Chief Johnny Siemens, continues its mission to provide service through empathy, transparency, and trust, all while managing a high volume of over 32,000 calls for service annually.

The UCPD's commitment to community safety has been tested by several high-profile and deeply unsettling cases dominating recent headlines, including capital murder arrests and ongoing hit-and-run investigations. This article provides a comprehensive, up-to-date look at the department’s leadership, its organizational structure, key divisions, and the most current events shaping its public profile right now in December 2025.

Chief Johnny Siemens: A Full Career Profile and Return to Universal City

The leadership of the Universal City Police Department is anchored by Chief of Police Johnny Siemens, a veteran law enforcement professional who returned to the city where his career roots were established. His appointment as Chief marks a significant chapter in the UCPD’s history, bringing a wealth of experience from command roles in neighboring jurisdictions.

Key Biographical Highlights of Chief Johnny Siemens

  • Current Role: Chief of Police, Universal City Police Department (UCPD).
  • Start Date: January 19 (Year not specified in the recent news, but his tenure is a focus of current reporting).
  • Previous Leadership Role: Chief of Police for the Castle Hills Police Department, a position he held for three years before returning to Universal City.
  • Command Experience: Prior to his role as Chief in Castle Hills, he served as a Captain within the Castle Hills Police Department for four years.
  • Career Note: His appointment in Universal City was highlighted in local news as a return to his professional origins, reinforcing his deep familiarity with the local community and its specific law enforcement needs.

Chief Siemens oversees a dedicated team of 32 sworn officers and 13 civilian employees, all working from the department’s headquarters at 2150 Universal City Blvd. His leadership emphasizes the core values of empathy, transparency, and trust, which are crucial for maintaining strong community relations while tackling complex criminal investigations.

Major Investigations and Universal City Police News Updates in 2025

The Universal City Police Department has been at the forefront of several significant and tragic incidents throughout 2025, demonstrating the critical role of its Criminal Investigations Division (CID) and first responders. The following cases represent the most recent and impactful news stories involving the UCPD, many of which required extensive resources and inter-agency cooperation.

The Fatal Stabbing and Capital Murder Arrest

One of the most devastating incidents recently handled by the UCPD involved the fatal stabbing of a 9-year-old boy. The investigation, which drew significant media attention, led to the arrest of the child's mother on capital murder charges. This case profoundly affected the community and first responders, with Universal City Police Department Detective David noting that nothing could have prepared the team for the scene they encountered. The UCPD held a news conference to update the public, showcasing the department's commitment to transparency even in the most sensitive of cases.

Ongoing September 2025 Hit-and-Run Investigation

As of late 2025, the UCPD's Traffic Enforcement and Accident Investigations teams are actively seeking the public’s assistance regarding a hit-and-run incident that occurred in September 2025. The investigation focuses on identifying the owner of a gray or silver Ford Fiesta believed to be involved in the incident. This ongoing effort highlights the collaboration between the police and Crime Stoppers to resolve serious traffic-related crimes and ensure accountability on Universal City roads.

Arrest in Connection with Husband’s Death

In another major case, the Universal City Police Department successfully identified and arrested a woman in connection with the death of her husband. This arrest, along with the other complex murder cases, underscores the diligence and investigative prowess of the UCPD’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID), which routinely meets to discuss current trends and pending cases to maintain a proactive approach to law enforcement.

The Organizational Pillars of the Universal City Police Department

To effectively manage its high call volume and enforce the law across the community, the UCPD is structured into several key divisions and utilizes specialized programs to foster community engagement. This structure allows the department to deploy resources efficiently for everything from Crime Prevention to complex investigations.

Key UCPD Divisions and Specialized Functions

The UCPD’s operational capacity is divided into essential functions, each playing a vital role in maintaining public safety and delivering on its mission of "excellence in service." These divisions and functions include:

  • Criminal Investigations Division (CID): Responsible for follow-up investigations on major crimes, including homicide, assault, and property crimes.
  • Patrol Division: The backbone of the department, responsible for responding to the over 32,000 annual calls for service, conducting routine patrols, and providing initial response to emergencies.
  • Records Division: Manages all official documents, including incident reports, open records requests, and administrative tasks like processing Alarm Permits.
  • Communications Division: The nerve center of the department, handling all 911 and non-emergency calls, and dispatching officers across the city.
  • Traffic Enforcement: Focuses on vehicle safety, speed enforcement, and managing the increasing volume of Accident Investigations.
  • Community Service/Outreach: Dedicated to building positive relationships through proactive initiatives and public education.

Community Engagement and Transparency Initiatives

A central tenet of the UCPD’s vision is transparency and community engagement. The department utilizes several programs and public resources to keep citizens informed and involved in local law enforcement efforts, promoting a partnership approach to public safety.

  • Universal City Citizens Police Academy (CPA): An eleven-week course designed to give citizens and local business owners an inside look at the operations, policies, and challenges faced by the UCPD, fostering better communication and understanding.
  • CPA Alumni Association: An organization that continues the partnership between the UCPD and dedicated citizens after they complete the academy.
  • Flock Camera Locations: The UCPD provides information on the locations of these cameras as part of its transparency commitment, using technology to aid in crime prevention and investigation.
  • Racial Profiling Policy: The department makes its policy on racial profiling publicly available, underscoring its commitment to fair and impartial policing.
  • Sexual Offender Ordinance: The UCPD strictly enforces the local ordinance regarding registered sex offenders to ensure community safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Universal City Police Services

The Universal City Police Department provides several essential services and resources to its residents. Understanding how to access these services is key for citizens.

How can I contact the Universal City Police Department for non-emergencies?

For non-emergency police matters, you can contact the UCPD at (210) 658-5353. For all emergencies, always dial 911.

Does the UCPD offer fingerprinting services?

No, the Universal City Police Department no longer offers public fingerprinting services.

How do I obtain an Incident Report or make an Open Records Request?

You can obtain an Incident Report or submit an Open Records Request by completing the required form, which can be done online or in person at the Police Department’s Records Division. Fees may apply for copies of records.

Do I need an Alarm Permit in Universal City?

Yes, if you have an alarm system, you are required to apply for an Alarm Permit. Applications can be submitted online or directly to the Records Division.

Where can I pay a Warrant?

Warrant payments are accepted at the Universal City Police Department offices, typically Monday through Thursday from 7 AM to 6 PM.

The Universal City Police Department: Inside the Elite Force and the Controversial Cases Dominating 2025 Headlines
universal city police department
universal city police department

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