Peter Davis dismissed from post as Galveston Beach Patrol Chief

“This decision follows a series of back-to-back investigations concerning Beach Patrol operations that led to concerns regarding Mr. Davis’ leadership of the department,” according to the statement.

Davis, who had been on unpaid leave pending the results of an investigation, didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

“It is never an easy decision to remove an employee,” Miles is quoted as saying.

“Let me assure you, every factor was taken into account “but my number-one priority at the end of the day is to have the right person overseeing the program that is responsible for the safety of every person who visits our beaches.”

Davis, who has been on leave since March 29, had worked for the park board for more than 40 years

He was placed on leave after administrators learned he allowed visiting lifeguards to stay in the dilapidated and since demolished Stewart Beach Pavilion in 2024.

But earlier missteps by Davis actually triggered turmoil in the park board, which, although autonomous, answers to the city.

The park board in October said it would restructure Galveston Beach Patrol after an investigation into embezzlement allegations also revealed supervisors knew about misused funds for months but took no corrective action, a top official said.

Angela Barton, 54, was sentenced to five years deferred adjudication and probation for withdrawing more than $30,000 in cash and charging more than $10,000 in unauthorized purchases using an account belonging to the Galveston Lifeguarding Association, a nonprofit affiliated with the island Beach Patrol.

Austin Kirwin, a 14-year Beach Patrol veteran, is serving as interim chief and beach patrol programs continue uninterrupted, according to the statement. 

“The park board is committed to protecting the residents and visitors who swim in the Gulf and will ensure resources are continued to be placed into this vital program. Galveston has one of the top beach patrol programs in the country and it is important to residents and visitors that it remains strong,” Miles said.