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Release Date: Jan. 18, 2022
Media Hot Line: 713.739.4040

Young Boy Battling Cancer Becomes MPD Honorary Officer

Watch Video: Devarjaye (DJ) Daniel is sworn in as an honorary MPD officer (see link to raw file for editing purposes below).

Ten-year-old Devarjaye (DJ) Daniel was sworn in today as an honorary METRO Police Department (MPD) officer at METRO's Administration Building in downtown Houston. DJ, who is battling terminal brain and spine cancer, is on a mission to be sworn in by 100 law enforcement agencies. He proudly accepted his official badge from METRO Chief of Police Vera Bumpers. 

"We appreciate you wanting to be a part of our organization," said Chief Bumpers. "Just know we are committed to praying for you every day. With God, all things are possible."

Daniel's father, Theodis Daniel, said his son's admiration for law enforcement began during Hurricane Harvey when his family sought refuge at the George R. Brown Convention Center. During their stay, Daniel said his family experienced acts of kindness from three police officers stationed at the center.

"The officers would always hand out snacks to DJ and his siblings," said Daniel. They took him under their wings during those tough days. DJ always remembered their kindness — it's something he never forgot." 

Nearly 40 MPD officers looked on as the fourth-grader was also given his very own MPD uniform and specially-made shadowbox, as well as a pin from the National Association of Black Law Enforcement Executives. Chief Bumpers also included a personal note of encouragement. The ceremony closed with the Police Officer's Prayer, led by MPD Sgt. Tommy Dean Jr.

MPD is the 47th law enforcement agency to swear in DJ as an honorary police officer.

Nearly 40 MPD police officers attended the swearing-in ceremony of Devarjaye (DJ) Daniel.

Media can access raw video footage of the event here.

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) is the region’s largest public transit provider, offering safe, clean, reliable, accessible and friendly transportation services. METRO’s transit network includes local bus, METRORail, which includes the Red Line (Main Street and Northline), the Green Line (East End) and the Purple Line (Southeast), Park & Ride commuter buses, METROLift paratransit service, HOV/HOT Express Lanes, Community Connector shuttle service and METRO Star Vanpool. In 2020, the Authority introduced the METRORapid Silver Line, the region’s first bus rapid transit service. Bike & Ride programs and road improvement projects are also part of METRO’s commitment to the Houston region. Focused on investing in the region’s future mobility needs, the Authority developed the METRONext Moving Forward Plan. METRO is also the first transit provider in the region to pilot autonomous vehicle shuttle technology. Learn more about METRO services at RideMETRO.org, where you will also find useful tools like the RideMETRO app where you can plan your trip and even pay your fare from your phone.