WACO, TX – A McLennan County Grand Jury has indicted 24-year-old Rene Martinez, a former Waco Police Officer, for Tampering with Physical Evidence following an internal and criminal investigation into misconduct during his employment with the Waco Police Department.
On July 26, 2025, the department launched an internal investigation after allegations surfaced regarding Martinez’s handling of evidence. He was placed on administrative leave with pay pending review. On August 1, 2025, a criminal investigation was initiated after leadership was notified of potential criminal violations tied to a prior investigation conducted by Martinez.
Investigators determined that during an April 2025 call for service at the Waco Regional Airport, Martinez recovered a firearm but failed to log, document, or properly store the weapon in accordance with departmental policy. The firearm was never transferred to the Waco Police Department Property Room.
Further investigation revealed that Martinez violated department policy, falsified a government document, and failed to comply with the department’s body-worn camera policy. Based on the evidence, the case was presented to the McLennan County Grand Jury, which returned an indictment for Tampering with Physical Evidence.
Martinez resigned from the Waco Police Department on August 28, 2025, while both the internal and criminal investigations were ongoing. Investigators concluded that his actions would have warranted termination had he remained employed.
“This type of behavior is unacceptable and will never be tolerated within the Waco Police Department,” said Chief Sheryl D. Victorian. “It is not a reflection of our profession, nor of the dedicated men and women who serve this community with honor and integrity each day. I am proud that members of our team were vigilant, took notice, and brought their concerns forward. Their actions reinforce the culture of accountability and professionalism that we are committed to maintaining.”
