Midland City Council Honored Police Officer
The city recognized officer Steven Pinkstaff for his recent heroic actions during a crisis call.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Law Enforcement

Midland City Council issued an official proclamation honoring police officer Steven Pinkstaff for his bravery during a recent emergency. The recognition highlights Pinkstaff's ability to remain calm while at personal risk during a volatile call.
Why it matters
The proclamation marks an official acknowledgment of the officer's dedication to public safety and his commitment to de-escalating high-stakes situations. Such commendations serve to publicly validate the efforts of law enforcement officers who put themselves in harm's way to protect community members.
The Midland City Council honored officer Steven Pinkstaff with a formal proclamation on October 13, 2026. The department continues to rely on his expertise as a member of the crisis hostage negotiations team.
The players
Steven Pinkstaff
He is a member of the Midland Police Department and the force's crisis hostage negotiations team who was honored for his heroism.
Midland City Council
The local governing body in Midland, Texas, that issued a formal proclamation to recognize the bravery of a local law enforcement officer.
The details
Officer Steven Pinkstaff, who joined the Midland Police Department on August 11, 2025, received the city's commendation for maintaining calm under personal risk. His history of intervention includes saving a 16-year-old boy from a fentanyl overdose during his previous tenure in Wichita Falls.
Timeline
Steven Pinkstaff began his six-year service at the Wichita Falls Police Department in 2019.
In 2022, Pinkstaff saved a 16-year-old boy from a fentanyl overdose.
Pinkstaff joined the Midland Police Department on August 11, 2025.
Midland City Council issued the proclamation to honor Pinkstaff on October 13, 2026.
Legal Context
This commendation aligns with standard municipal practices for recognizing law enforcement excellence within the Texas legal landscape. It reinforces the role of local government in vetting and celebrating the specific interventions of officers serving in high-risk assignments.
Residents can expect continued presence from experienced crisis negotiators like Pinkstaff during emergency calls. This public recognition serves as an assurance to the community regarding the training and professional standards held by local law enforcement officers.
The takeaway
Recognizing officers for calm intervention during crises highlights the importance of de-escalation training in modern police work. Residents should understand that the presence of specialized crisis negotiators is a standard safety protocol for high-risk situations in the area.
Further reading
For more information on local public safety initiatives, visit the Law Enforcement section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Midland Reporter-Telegram.










