News Summary
Eve Stephens, former Chief of Police at the University of Texas Police Department, has filed a federal lawsuit against the university for wrongful termination. Allegations include discrimination based on gender and national origin, claiming her termination was part of a larger trend targeting female employees within the department. The ongoing legal battle highlights critical issues of workplace equity and representation in higher education security agencies.
UTPD Chief Files Lawsuit Against University of Texas
Former Police Chief Alleges Discrimination in Termination
Houston, TX — In a significant legal development, Eve Stephens, the former Chief of Police at the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), has initiated a federal lawsuit against the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Texas System. The lawsuit, citing wrongful termination due to allegations of discrimination based on gender and national origin, claims that her dismissal was part of a larger trend targeting female employees within the department.
Stephens, who was appointed as UTPD Chief in July 2023 and served until September 2024, was notable for being the first Asian-American woman to lead any police department within the UT System. This case sheds light on broader issues of workplace discrimination while spotlighting attempts to foster diversity and representation within law enforcement in higher education institutions.
Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit was filed on November 21, 2025. It asserts that Stephens was terminated without adequate cause just after receiving a positive performance review. During a Zoom meeting with senior university officials, she was presented with the option to either resign, face termination, or work temporarily as a special advisor, opting for the latter. The filing claims a lack of explanation surrounding her dismissal, raising questions about the university’s internal processes and oversight.
Allegations of Discriminatory Practices
A central element of the lawsuit involves allegations that Amanda Cochran-McCall, the Vice President for Legal Affairs, displayed biased behavior toward female employees, including making derogatory remarks and failing to support their professional development. According to the claims, this discriminatory atmosphere worsened following administrative changes in January 2024, which resulted in UTPD reporting directly to the Office of Legal Affairs. The lawsuit further contends that Stephens’ successor, Shane Streepy, was not qualified for the role, contradicting established departmental requirements.
Context and Background
Stephens’ brief tenure was marked by a commitment to improving female representation in the UTPD, where women previously constituted a mere 13.6% of sworn personnel and 20% of leadership roles. Her departure raised concerns as it coincided with the alleged ousting of several other female officers, including the elimination of the department’s last two Asian-American women in leadership positions. This raises critical questions about the current state of diversity and inclusion practices within the university’s law enforcement agency.
University’s Response
The University of Texas system confirmed awareness of the lawsuit but has withheld further comments regarding the specifics of the case. Additionally, there has been no public statement from UTPD itself concerning the allegations or their current stance on workforce diversity initiatives.
About the University of Texas Police Department
The UTPD operates 24 hours a day as an accredited state police agency dedicated to serving the university community. The department encompasses a variety of operational divisions, including investigative units, K-9 teams, and specialized patrol units. Their overarching philosophy emphasizes community-oriented policing, fostering more effective communication with the student body and faculty to enhance campus safety.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Plaintiff | Eve Stephens, former Chief of Police at UTPD |
| Defendants | University of Texas at Austin and University of Texas System |
| Allegations | Wrongful termination based on gender and national origin discrimination; part of a “coordinated purge of female employees” |
| Position Held | Chief of Police at UTPD from July 2023 to September 2024 |
| Significance | First Asian-American woman to lead any UT System police department |
| University’s Response | Aware of the lawsuit; no further comment provided |
Conclusion
This lawsuit marks an important moment in the ongoing discourse about workplace equity and representation within higher education institutions in Texas. As this case unfolds, it underscores the necessity for thorough examinations of hiring and termination practices, as well as a commitment to diversity in leadership roles. Stakeholders in Houston’s college community are encouraged to stay informed about developments in this case and consider the implications for the broader higher education sector.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the lawsuit filed by Eve Stephens about?
The lawsuit alleges that Eve Stephens was wrongfully terminated from her position as Chief of Police at the University of Texas Police Department due to discrimination based on gender and national origin. She claims her dismissal was part of a “coordinated purge of female employees from the department.”
Who is Eve Stephens?
Eve Stephens served as the Chief of Police at the University of Texas Police Department from July 2023 to September 2024. She was the first Asian-American woman to lead any UT System police department.
What are the main allegations in the lawsuit?
The lawsuit alleges that Stephens was terminated without cause following a positive performance review. It also claims that her supervisor, Amanda Cochran-McCall, exhibited discriminatory behavior toward female employees and that Stephens’ successor was unqualified for the position.
What is the University of Texas’ response to the lawsuit?
A University of Texas spokesperson stated that the university is aware of the lawsuit but did not provide further comment. UTPD did not respond to requests for comment.
What is the University of Texas Police Department?
The University of Texas Police Department is an accredited state police agency serving the UT community 24 hours a day. It includes an investigative division, K-9 teams, bicycle patrol team, and its own 911 Dispatch Center. The department operates on a community-oriented policing philosophy, encouraging greater communication between police and the communities they serve.
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Eve Stephens Files Discrimination Lawsuit Against UT
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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