The concept of Homicide Investigators of Texas, Inc. (H.I.T.) originated in June 1985 by Leland K. Wood, who was at that time was the Program Director of the Texas Crime Prevention Institute, and Sergeant Dwain Johnson, Homicide Division, El Paso Police Department.
There was no association in Texas specifically for Homicide Investigators at this time. Leland and Dwain both agreed that there was an immediate need for such an organization, and the two of them pooled their resources to develop a Homicide Investigators Association. The H.I.T. Articles of Incorporation were signed, and H.I.T. was established and recognized by the State of Texas on September 22, 1986. The original Board of Directors consisted of the following individuals:
The original goal remains to provide the following services to Homicide Investigators serving Texas and its neighboring states:
- Quality Training designed specifically for members who investigate any questionable death.
- An opportunity for Investigators from different Agencies to exchange information on cases and discuss similarities.
- A network of contacts with Investigators from many agencies.
- Enhancement of new Investigator's skills through association with seasoned Investigators.
No Greater honor will ever be bestowed on you as a Police Officer or a more profound duty imposed on you than when you are entrusted with the investigation of the death of a human being. It is the moral duty and, as an Officer entrusted with such a duty, it is incumbent upon you to follow the course of events and the facts as they develop to their ultimate conclusion. It is a heavy responsibility. As such, let no person deter you from the truth or your personal conviction to see that justice is done, not only for the deceased, but for the surviving family as well.
