Master Peace Officer | U.S. Army Ret. Lieutenant Colonel | Police Lieutenant (Ret.)

Luis “TJ” Tinajero, Sr. brings over 30 years of distinguished service in law enforcement and military operations to his role as Director of Law Enforcement Training for Texas Elite Academy. As a retired Lieutenant from the Laredo Police Department and a U.S. Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel with combat tours, Mr. Tinajero leads the academy’s law enforcement programs with unmatched depth, discipline, and integrity.

He began his career with the Laredo Police Department at the age of 20 and served in numerous critical capacities, including Patrol Supervisor, DEA Task Force Agent, Field Training Officer, Program Coordinator, and Training Division Instructor. He was pivotal in founding community-focused programs such as the Citizens Police Academy and Citizens On Patrol. In addition to local service, he served as Chief Deputy Constable for Webb County Pct. 3 and currently serves as a Deputy Sheriff in Jim Hogg County, Texas.

Mr. Tinajero’s military background spans 32 years, including deployments to Afghanistan where he served as Chief of Operations and Personal Security Detail Commander under Operation Enduring Freedom. He commanded several Army units and is currently the Battalion Commander of the 3rd BN, 3rd BDE of the Texas State Guard.

An accomplished academic, Mr. Tinajero holds two Master’s degrees—one in Criminal Justice and another in Counseling Psychology—with a minor in Public Administration. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Psychology and is a published author, respected columnist, and recognized expert witness in police use of force and emergency driving.

He is certified by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement as a Master Peace Officer, Master Police Instructor, and Hostage Negotiator. He has instructed at Laredo College, Texas A&M International University, and other institutions. His leadership at Texas Elite Academy reflects his lifelong dedication to developing the next generation of law enforcement professionals with honor, courage, and tactical excellence.