Cop Throws Tear Gas at Rodeo Cookoff. What Was He Thinking?

A Houston police officer participating with a cooking team at the Houston rodeo's BBQ cook-off has been relieved of duty for reportedly tossing a tear gas canister at his opponents, apparently sickening several patrons.

A Houston Police spokeswoman says 51 year old officer Mike Hamby has been relieved of duty with pay while the Internal Affairs Division investigates what are described as "criminal allegations."

Hamby, a 30 year veteran who joined HPD in 1980, is assigned to the department's burglary and theft division.

It's also reported that Hamby has a history of official complaints about his conduct as an officer, including misconduct and improper police procedures.

via HPD officer suspended in tear gas incident at rodeo | Houston & Texas News | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle.

HPD and rodeo officials say they are simply astounded by the incident.  One official says apparently some people think they can get away with anything.