[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 31 (Friday, February 14, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E185-E186]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN RECOGNITION OF CAPTAIN DAVID OWEN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 14, 2020

  Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the exemplary 
work and life of service of Captain David Owen of the University of 
North Texas Police Department in Denton, Texas.
  Captain David Owen began his law enforcement career with the Titus 
County Sheriff's Office in 2004. He was hired by the University of 
North Texas Police Department on June 13, 2005 as a Police Officer. He 
served the UNT students, faculty, and staff until his death on February 
11, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer.
  Captain Owen received a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and 
political science from Midwestern State University and a graduate 
certification in criminal justice education from the University of 
Virginia. He also attended several leadership training programs 
including the 270th session of the FBI National Academy, the 
International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators 
Executive

[[Page E186]]

Development Institute and the Institute for Law Enforcement 
Administration's School of Police Supervision.
  At the time of his death, Captain Owen supervised the Field Services 
unit of the police department, overseeing patrol and special events 
planning. His prior roles in the department include serving as Support 
Services Unit Supervisor, Criminal Investigator and Patrol Officer. 
Captain Owen was a certified TCOLE Master Peace Officer and Police 
Instructor. He had served on UNT's Student Support Task Force, and 
earned a Police Commendation and the Excellence in Public Service 
award, as well as being recognized by MADD (Mothers Against Drunk 
Driving).
  David Owen was extremely tough and resilient in his last fight, a 
reflection of the type of person he was--dedicated to performing the 
job well and to the best of his abilities. He stood up for what he 
believed was right but was always thoughtful enough to consider the 
viewpoints of others. He believed strongly in educating himself and 
others so that clear and informed decisions could be made. He is 
survived by his wife Joy and their six children who live in Krum, 
Texas.
  Captain Owen devoted over 20 years of his life to protect and serve 
his community, putting strangers' safety above his own, and we are 
indebted to him. His positive impact and worthwhile contributions to 
the UNT Police Department and UNT community will be sorely missed. I am 
deeply grateful for his service and pray for comfort and peace for his 
wife, children and friends.

                          ____________________