Today, Explained Introducing Chicano Squad
Feb 1, 2021
A tragic murder in 1977 sparks outrage in Houston, leading to community unrest and the creation of a unique Chicano Squad within the police force. The disturbing treatment of veteran Jose Campos Torres highlights systemic violence and mistrust between law enforcement and the Latino community. As his family searches for justice, a movement against police brutality gains momentum, revealing the deep scars of history and the ongoing struggle for racial equity. This tale intertwines personal hardships with the broader fight for rights and recognition.
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The Death of Jose Campos Torres
- One year prior to the Moody Park riot, on Cinco de Mayo 1977, Jose Campos Torres died in HPD custody.
- The community's anger fueled protests and demands for justice.
Moody Park Riot
- A minor fight at the Moody Park Cinco de Mayo celebration escalated into a riot.
- This riot involved rock and bottle throwing, attacks on reporters, and injuries to a police officer.
Discovery of the Body
- J.C. Freeman, a tour boat operator, discovered Jose Campos Torres's body in Buffalo Bayou.
- After reporting it, he was shocked to learn from the dispatcher that Torres was supposedly in police custody.
