Wichita Falls officials face public pressure over Victoria Lane arrest; city launches policy review
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Summary
Residents demanded the release of body‑worn camera footage and criminal charges after the arrest of Victoria Lang; Mayor Tim Short said an investigation continues but the city has opened a formal review of mental‑health response policies with outside experts.
Mayor Tim Short told a packed Wichita Falls City Council chamber on Feb. 17 that the city shares public frustration over the pace of the investigation into the arrest of Victoria Lang but cannot release body‑worn camera footage while the inquiry is active. "We started with the mental health response policy," Short said, adding that the city has "partnered with Helen Fairby Centers as our outside experts."
The announcement came amid sustained public comment calling for accountability. "The body cam footage needs to be released," said Stephanie Harris, a Wichita Falls resident, who accused officers of using excessive force and urged prosecutors to bring charges against Daniel Wilson and Douglas Gulley. Dr. Sonia Felice, a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, told the council she was "deeply troubled" by reports that no female officer or documented mental‑health assessment was conducted and asked what de‑escalation training and psychological screening are required for officers.
Speakers including Crystal Washington and John Hutchinson said the case reflects a broader pattern of over‑policing and unequal treatment across neighborhoods. Washington said officers "choke this lady" and "dragged her," alleging complaints are routinely shelved in internal files. Hutchinson called continued delay "concealment" and warned the issue will be a campaign issue if the council does not act.
Council members divided over the response. Some urged patience and adherence to investigative processes involving the Texas Rangers and other authorities, noting concerns that premature disclosure could jeopardize investigations or legal remedies. Others said policy changes and supervisory reviews announced by the mayor were necessary first steps.
What happens next: Short said the mayor's office, city manager and council have asked the police chief to review supervisory practices, training and accountability across the department and that the policy review work is active and will be shared on the city's website. The council recessed into executive session at 9:37 a.m. to consider other matters listed on the certified agenda.
