ODESSA, Texas – The University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) held a commissioning ceremony Tuesday morning to welcome its new police chief, Matt Mull. Mull arrives with more than three decades of experience in law enforcement, including a career start as an officer at Texas Tech.
Chief Mull’s priorities focus on safety and partnership
“As I step into this role my priorities are straightforward, keeping the campus safe, building strong relationships, and ensuring our department remains a trusted and respected part of this university community,” Mull said during the ceremony.
He emphasized that campus security is a shared responsibility. “We can’t do this alone, it requires a community, it requires those partnerships with campus leadership, faculty, staff, student bodies, and local law enforcement,” Mull told First Alert 7.
Technology upgrades and new initiatives
UTPB is already upgrading its security infrastructure with new camera systems and door‑access controls. Mull plans to build on those improvements by establishing a Campus Crime Stoppers branch that will work closely with Ector County and Odessa Crime Stoppers.
He also intends to recruit additional officers and strengthen ties with student athletes, ensuring they feel comfortable interacting with law‑enforcement personnel. “Our goal is to create an environment where every member of the campus community feels safe and respected,” he added.
Community impact and future outlook
The appointment comes at a time when many local institutions are reinforcing public‑safety measures. By focusing on relationship‑building and modern technology, Mull’s leadership aligns with broader community efforts to maintain a secure environment for families, students and faculty alike.
University officials expressed confidence that Mull’s extensive background will guide the department through upcoming challenges and opportunities. “Matt’s experience and commitment to partnership make him an excellent fit for our campus,” said a UTPB spokesperson.
Residents of Odessa and the surrounding Permian Basin region can expect continued collaboration between the university police and local law‑enforcement agencies, reinforcing the shared goal of a safe, thriving community.
Original reporting: CBS7 / First Alert 7 KOSA (Gray) — read the source article.
