A former San Antonio Police Officer who was fired back in 2016 for giving a homeless man a feces sandwich is now working for the City of Benavides Police Department.
The story was first reported by the San Antonio Express-News. Through their investigation, they found that Matthew Luckhurst was one of just two police officers currently employed by the small town in Duval County. The Express-News also says Luckhurst was hired by the City of Benavides back in 2023. They currently have him listed on their police department website.
Back when Mr. Luckhurst was employed by SAPD, he had bragged to his fellow officers about an incident where he gave a homeless man a sandwich that contained dog feces. These officers then reported Mr. Luckhurst to the internal affairs division. At the time, San Antonio Police Chief William McManus said, “This was a vile and disgusting act that violates our guiding principles of ‘treating all with integrity, compassion, fairness and respect.’” Luckhurst denied the allegations and maintained his innocence.
Since then, Luckhurst had unsuccessfully sought employment with the City of Floresville. Shortly after they had learned about his time with SAPD, he was let go. Benavides appears to be the latest stop on his journey to stay employed as a peace officer.
Despite these allegations, his employment with the City of Benavides appears to be secure, for now. The city’s leadership is standing by him and says this employment opportunity is part of their commitment to second chances, according to a statement they provided to KENS 5.
This hiring demonstrates their commitment to offering individuals a second chance. Officer Luckhurst has consistently maintained that the allegations made against him during his time with the San Antonio police department—specifically the incident involving a homeless man—are untrue. An arbitrator ruled in favor of reinstating his employment. – City of Benavides