Lamar Beckworth named interim director of DPS

. . . continued from page one

Beckworth was tapped for the new position after allegations were made against Clark that he had engaged in inappropriate behavior, which included blowing kisses at one employee and touching another. According to a memo from Beckworth, Clark referred to one female employee as "his girl" and "other derogatory terms."

"This is an elite law enforcement agency," said Polunsky. "The director must set the examples for all employees in their workplace communications."

Clark had worked at DPS since 1973, first as a Highway Patrol trooper. He advanced to become regional commander of the agency before he was named interim director in 2008. A nationwide search to find a permanent director is under way.

"We are disappointed by this matter, and we are committed to moving on in our search for a director," Poulnsky said.

Clark's departure marks the second director to step down as DPS head in nine months. Col. Tommy Davis retired last June amid criticism after it was discovered security lapses occurred during an arson attack on the Governor's Mansion.