ATO today’s episode features one of the true leaders of the Dallas Police Department and one of the most influential people in Dallas Police over the last three decades. This is a story of how a young kid from Houston came to Dallas Texas to serve the City in 1994 and end his career as the President over the Department’s largest Association.

Mike started in God’s country, the Southeast Division, and quickly gravitated to an aggressive, proactive style of policing and worked in the 3080s drug enforcement unit and had a unique knack for communicating, a trait that will serve him well later in his career.

He several assignments such as the academy, major crimes, and the traffic unit but all along, behind the scenes, Mike was fighting for the rank and file in the Department.

After years of serving on the Dallas Police Association board and serving as a Vice President, Mike took the keys to the DPA in 2016 then life at Dallas seemingly traveled into the twilight zone as they saw unbelievable tragedy, fight for pay, pension issues poor department leadership that the new president had on his plate.

Mike has dedicated his life to serving the city and not only the Dallas Police Officers but all of Texas law enforcement as he has fought tirelessly for their rights.

The stage lights are bright, the curtain is raised, and Sgt. Mike Mata is standing front and center to tell his amazing story of being a true difference maker in the city of Dallas.

Critical Incidents Discussed:

• The tragedy of July 7th, 2016, that saw five officers murdered by a lone gunman.
• The Dallas Chief Hall administration.
• The Dallas Police pension issues.
• September 6th, 2018, Dallas Texas shooting of Botham Jean.
• 2020 George Floyd riots