Special D.A. Appointed for Investigation into WFPD Officers

Texas Rangers probe former Wichita Falls police officers Daniel Wilson and Douglas Gulley

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A special District Attorney has been appointed to assist Texas Rangers with their investigation into two former Wichita Falls police officers, Daniel Wilson and Douglas Gulley, who have been the subject of recent controversy related to the police department. The Wichita County District Attorney's Office requested the appointment to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest, as the office had worked closely with Wilson in the past.

Why it matters

This investigation highlights the importance of maintaining public trust in law enforcement through independent oversight, especially when there are allegations of misconduct involving officers. The appointment of a special District Attorney from outside the local jurisdiction is intended to ensure a thorough and objective investigation.

The details

Texas Rangers are conducting the investigation into Wilson and Gulley, two former Wichita Falls police officers. Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie requested the appointment of an attorney pro tem, Jim Hicks of Taylor County, to assist the Rangers and handle any grand jury presentations or prosecutions. Gillespie cited the close working relationship between his office and Wilson as the reason for the request, to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest.

  • On February 25, 2026, 30th District Judge Jeff McKnight granted the request to appoint Jim Hicks as the attorney pro tem.

The players

John Gillespie

Wichita County District Attorney who requested the appointment of a special prosecutor to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest in the investigation.

Jim Hicks

Taylor County District Attorney who was appointed as the attorney pro tem to assist the Texas Rangers with their investigation and handle any grand jury presentations or prosecutions.

Daniel Wilson

Former Wichita Falls police officer who has been the subject of the Texas Rangers investigation.

Douglas Gulley

Former Wichita Falls police officer who has also been the subject of the Texas Rangers investigation.

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What they’re saying

“Because of the sensitivity of this investigation, it was important to me to avoid any appearance of a conflict. That's why the pro tem law exists. I made the request to Judge McKnight, and he appointed the Taylor County DA.”

— John Gillespie, Wichita County District Attorney (texomashomepage.com)

“I have great confidence this was the right appointment. The Texas Ranger overseeing the investigation is out of Abilene and works closely with DA Hicks. DA Hicks has never worked with either Wilson or Gulley before, so the public can have confidence in his objectivity.”

— John Gillespie, Wichita County District Attorney (texomashomepage.com)

What’s next

The special District Attorney, Jim Hicks, will work with the Texas Rangers on the ongoing investigation, advise them, and handle any grand jury presentations and/or subsequent prosecutions.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of independent oversight and transparency in investigations involving law enforcement, in order to maintain public trust and ensure a thorough and objective process. The appointment of a special prosecutor from outside the local jurisdiction is a prudent step to avoid any potential conflicts of interest.