Abstract
Out of the more than 100,000 sworn law enforcement officers in Texas, only 94 are Texas Rangers, but their jurisdiction is statewide. They pursue -- sometimes on horseback but more often in high-speed vehicles, boats, and aircraft -- corrupt officials and fleeing felons, investigate major crimes, suppress riots, and lend their expertise to police agencies throughout the State. An applicant must be in excellent physical condition and have an exemplary record of at least 8 years of law enforcement experience, the last 2 years of which must be with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Background checks of applicants are exhaustive. After appointment, a Ranger receives special training in courses that cover fingerprinting, photography, hostage negotiations, criminal investigation, small arms firing, and other law enforcement subjects. Rangers have no official uniform, although most wear conservative business suits and ties with white Stetson hats and cowboy boots. A five-pointed star supported by a wheel worn on their shirts is the distinguishing identification for a Texas Ranger.
