7'3" police officer joins Kemah PD

HOUSTON, Texas -- A new police officer is turning heads as he patrols the streets of Kemah. At a height of 7'3", Jordan 'Tiny' Wilmore is believed to be the tallest police officer in Texas. Wilmore was sworn by the Kemah Police Department this week.

He says becoming a police officer has always been a dream for him, although he was once a college basketball standout, playing for Missouri, Northwestern State and Texas A&M-Commerce. He played professionally overseas, but ultimately decided his real passion was law enforcement.

"When I was younger, I had aspirations and goals to maybe, hopefully play in the NBA or play somewhere professionally," said Wilmore. "I got the chance not too long ago to play in the Philippines with my old teammate who is also 7-foot as well. That experience was cool, but I realized basketball wasn't for me when I was playing out there. And I've always known I wanted to be a police officer."

Wilmore even attracted the attention of his idol, NBA legend and reserve deputy Shaquille O'Neal, who visited Kemah PD to offer him support and encouragement. Kemah PD says his uniform and police cruiser will be custom-made to fit his 7'3" frame.

"He wants to serve, he has a passion to serve," said Kemah Police Chief Raymond Garivey. "You can see the generosity in him. But don't get me wrong, no mistake, at 7'3", he's definitely going to be an enforcer. So if you come to Kemah to commit a crime, that's probably not a good thing when he's on duty."

"I just want to thank every single person who is part of the Kemah community for their loving, kind words and supporting me through his journey," said Wilmore. "I always want to be there for whoever needs my help."

ABC13's Localish team caught up with Kemah's newest police officer in the video above to learn more about his journey through the police academy and the incredible support he received along the way.