The Texas Department of Public Safety Officers Association (DPSOA) is facing scrutiny after promoting a new challenge coin featuring an aggressively armed bear in a DPS uniform alongside the phrase “mess around and find out.” The association, which ordered 100 of the coins, has been actively advertising them on social media platforms.
The challenge coin design, which includes the bear wielding an automatic rifle, has drawn mixed reactions since its debut. Some supporters see it as a morale booster and a strong statement of law enforcement resolve. Others, however, question the appropriateness of the imagery and messaging, especially given heightened public awareness around law enforcement conduct and communication.
The DPSOA is an independent organization representing DPS employees and has historically used challenge coins for internal recognition and fundraising efforts. While these coins are a tradition in law enforcement, the imagery and tagline of this particular coin have sparked debate about the tone it conveys.
The coin has not been officially endorsed by the Department of Public Safety itself, and there is no indication that DPS leadership was involved in its creation. The DPSOA has not issued a statement addressing the growing discussion around the design or its public promotion.
Social media users have taken notice of the coin’s bold design, with some praising it for capturing the spirit of officers’ resilience, while others have expressed concern that it might send a message of aggression rather than service and protection.
The promotion of the coin comes as public attention on law enforcement’s image and community relations remains high. Whether the DPSOA will make additional orders or alter its approach to promoting the coin remains to be seen.
Texas Reporter 