Audio Correction: In “appreneding” a criminal NOT “approaching a criminal.”
Another BPD Officer is called Home
While we are still reeling from the loss of our brother Officer Stewart Beasley #38, I am sad to
report that BPD K9 Officer Johnny Almendarez #144 was found unresponsive at his home early
Sunday morning. Herculean efforts were not able to overcome the possible cardiac event and
another of our brothers has been called Home.
Officer Johnny Almendarez was 50 years old and had been with Baytown PD for just under 20
years. He had been a K-9 Handler for approximately 10 months, along with his K-9 partner Robby
Mac aka “Hero”, and prior to that he was an integral part of our Hot Spot Team where he made
a huge impact. Officer Almendarez was very well known for his ability to identify and apprehend
criminals as well as for his recall ability. If he came into contact with you, chances are your face
and name was forever engrained in his memory, as were all of your associates, this talent is just
one of the many things that made him a very valuable part of our department. He also helped
train countless members of our department in his time as a Field Training Officer and would
always offer up his advice to those in need of direction.
Officer Almendarez had a great sense of humor as well; he could make anyone laugh with his
jokes and his impersonations of other officers, rank and file and supervisors alike. Officer Johnny
Almendarez was a good man and a great Cop who served our community with honor and
distinction, even earning the department’s Purple Heart award in 2012 for his heroic efforts in
apprehending a criminal after being attacked while investigating a suspicious person call. But
more importantly, Johnny was a valued colleague and friend to all of us here at BPD and he will
be greatly missed and never forgotten.
Thank you for remembering the family in your prayers. Arrangements are under the care of
Crespo & Jirrels, and we will share details once arrangements have been finalized. Rest well my
brother Johnny, you served well sir and will not be forgotten. We have the watch sir.
BAYTOWN POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Lieutenant Steve Dorris
Public Information Officer
(281) 420-6617
steve.dorris@baytown.org