Chief Bowie was formerly the Police Captain for the Department
CapMetro has hired a new Chief of Transit Police, RenEarl Bowie, after an extensive hiring process to fill the role following the departure of the former Chief, Eric Robins, in July 2025. Bowie steps into this role with more than 30 years of transformative leadership in law enforcement.
“Chief RenEarl Bowie is an outstanding choice to lead CapMetro’s Transit Police Department,” said Jeff Travillion, CapMetro Board of Directors Chairman and Travis County Commissioner. “His decades of leadership in law enforcement and deep commitment to serving the entire community give us the confidence that he will bring the experience and insight needed to guide the young department as it continues to grow.”
“I am thrilled to have RenEarl Bowie as our new Chief of Transit Police,” said Dottie Watkins, CapMetro President and CEO. “He’s highly respected in our community for his leadership and commitment to policing the right way, through service, accountability, and strong community relationships. I also want to send my sincere thanks to Assistant Chief Joseph Rose, who served as interim Chief of Transit Police during this hiring process. His steady leadership was essential in ensuring a smooth and successful transition.”
Chief Bowie joined the Transit Police Department in May 2025, after previously serving with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). He began his career with DPS as a State Trooper in 1994, and went on to hold several key leadership roles, including Chief of the Training Operations Division until his departure in 2022.
He has a master’s degree in criminal justice from Texas State University, and a certificate from the School of Police Staff and Command from Northwestern University. He is currently an Adjunct Professor at Austin Community College and Temple College, and has previously instructed at Concordia University, Northwestern University, DPS Counter-Terrorism Section, and the Capital Area Council of Governments (CAPCOG) Academy.
“First and foremost, I want to thank CapMetro’s leadership for entrusting me with the opportunity to serve as the next Chief of Transit Police,” said RenEarl Bowie, CapMetro Chief of Transit Police. “Earlier this year, I joined the department as the Police Captain because I deeply believe in our mission. I am truly honored to now lead this dedicated team as we continue building relationships with our community and ensuring the safety and security of our system.”
CapMetro’s Transit Police Department became operational in June 2025 with nine officers, two sergeants and one captain. Since then, the Department has expanded to 12 officers and two sergeants.
To learn more about our Transit Police Department, as well as information on how to join the team, visit https://www.capmetro.org/public-safety-program/transit-police.
