Chief of Police

The City of Sinton, a vibrant community located just 30 minutes outside of Corpus Christi, Texas, enjoys a strong sense of safety and quality of life. While no community is immune to crime, Sinton residents are actively engaged with their police department in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Leading this effort is Chief Eric Blanchard, a seasoned law enforcement professional who recently returned to Sinton after serving as Chief of Police and Public Safety Director in Aransas Pass, Texas. During his time in Aransas Pass, Chief Blanchard spearheaded several innovative initiatives, including:

  • Establishing a harbor safety and enforcement division with a marine rescue diver unit: This specialized unit enhanced safety and security along the 40 square miles of jurisdictional coastline.
  • Creating a drone operation division: Early integration of drone technology provided the department with valuable aerial surveillance and rescue capabilities.
  • Elevating the department's training division:  Chief Blanchard transformed the training division into a leading public safety training center for the Coastal Bend region of Texas.

In addition to overseeing a team of approximately 50 police personnel, including telecommunicators, officers, detectives, and DEA task force officers, Chief Blanchard served as Aransas Pass's Public Safety Director. In this role, he managerially oversaw fire and emergency medical services and managed all emergency management operations.  His leadership and expertise are invaluable assets to the Sinton community.

During his time, Chief Blanchard received numerous accolades, including:

* Employee of the Year (City of Aransas Pass, 2013 & 2019)

* Outstanding Citizen of the Community (Woman’s Club of Aransas Pass, 2014)

* Outstanding Public Service Achievement Award (Chamber of Commerce, 2015)

* Nomination for Taser’s RISE Award (Taser - Policeone, 2015)

* The Key to the City Award for his efforts during Hurricane Harvey (Aransas Pass Council, 2017)

* Pillar of the Community Award (Spirit of Aransas Pass, 2018)

* Service Community Commitment Award (Community of Aransas Pass, 2019)

* Soaring Eagle Award (Aransas Pass Chamber & Visitor Center, 2025)

Chief Blanchard's distinguished law enforcement career began in 2000 when he graduated at the top of his class from the Del Mar Police Academy. After brief periods with the Mathis and Portland Police Departments, he found his home with the Sinton Police Department, where he dedicated the majority of his early career.  

In 2012, Chief Blanchard's leadership skills led him to the role of Chief of Police in Aransas Pass, where he served with distinction for over 12 years.  He returned to Sinton in January 2025 to succeed his esteemed mentor, Chief Eugenio De Leon, who retired after a remarkable 37-year career with the department.

A highly accomplished officer, investigator, and administrator, Chief Blanchard has earned a reputation for excellence throughout his career. His expertise in criminal investigations is noteworthy, with a proven track record of successfully handling complex cases, including those with international implications.  This investigative acumen has earned him recognition from organizations such as the Crime Victims Coalition in Corpus Christi and the Children's Advocacy Center of the Coastal Bend.

Chief Blanchard is a strong advocate for utilizing technology to enhance policing practices and build strong community partnerships. His commitment to professional development and community engagement is evident in his roles as Regional Director for the Texas Police Chiefs Association, Region #11, and President of the Coastal Bend Police Chiefs Association (2025). He also shares his expertise as an Adjunct Professor for the Criminal Justice Program at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.

Chief Blanchard holds an Associate Degree from Del Mar College, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Tarleton State University.

Dedicated to transparency and community engagement, Chief Blanchard maintains an open-door policy and welcomes public inquiries, concerns, and feedback.