Protecting the Voiceless: Bill Waybourn on Human Trafficking and Hidden Abuse
This week, Marcus and Melanie sit down with one of Texas’ most respected law enforcement leaders and advocates for the vulnerable — Sheriff Bill Waybourn.
With more than three decades of service, Bill’s career has been defined by courage, conviction, and a relentless commitment to protecting both communities and the voiceless.
From pioneering groundbreaking DWI reform programs to shaping Texas firearm legislation, Bill has stood at the intersection of public safety, constitutional rights, and moral responsibility.
But beyond the badge, Bill’s story is also one of deep compassion — especially when it comes to children in need.
Bill served 31 years as Chief of Police in Dalworthington Gardens, where he became a recognized expert witness and leader in statewide criminal justice reform.
He is credited with pioneering the Texas “No Refusal” DWI program, a model that has significantly reduced drunk driving fatalities and has since been adopted by multiple states.
Bill has also testified before the Texas Legislature on a myriad of key issues.
Bill is especially honored to have helped pass the Chris Kyle Bill, which streamlines the process for military servicemen and women transitioning into law enforcement careers.
His dedication to veterans and service members reflects a lifelong commitment to those who have sacrificed for this country.
During his first term as Sheriff, Bill launched several nationally recognized initiatives, including a Human Trafficking Unit, a Department of Intelligence, aggressive inmate service programs, less-than-lethal training expansion, and cutting-edge departmental reforms.
Bill and his wife Laura Waybourn are the proud parents of ten children, eight of whom have been adopted.
Together, they are passionate advocates for children without families, and their lives are rooted in service far beyond law enforcement.
A Heartbreaking Story of Survival: Alyssa
One of the most emotional moments in this episode comes as Bill shares the story of his foster daughter Alyssa, who endured horrific medical abuse as a toddler.
He recounts how Alyssa was severely malnourished, weighing only 18 pounds, dehydrated, and tragically harmed by her biological mother through Munchausen syndrome by proxy — a form of abuse where caregivers fabricate illness for attention or control.
Under proper medical care, Alyssa began to flourish — but her story shines a light on a rarely discussed form of child abuse that demands awareness and action.
This conversation is equal parts intense, inspiring, and deeply human — a reminder that real leadership means protecting those who cannot protect themselves.
In this episode you will hear:
• My dad believed in practical lessons. After bragging that I was the best cowboy on the ground today, and my dad put me on a Bramer steer. I lasted about a second and a half on that ride. He went from there teaching about humility, and how it’s a biblical principle, and I needed to learn about that. (9:10)
• One of the things that the Air Force did well is that they taught you leadership, independence, and discipline all at the same time. (15:56)
• I was 24 years old, and the Police Chief resigned. The city council interviewed a bunch of people and about an hour and a half later, they called me back and said, “You’re the Chief.” (20:34)
• [Marcus] Q: Explain to me the difference between a constable, a police officer, and a sheriff. (A: Starts at 22:40 and runs thru 28:14)
• There’ve been some great moments throughout my career. My [most memorable events] were surrounded by life-saving stuff. (30:57)
• As Sheriff, I was blessed to make a human trafficking unit. We are now moving close to 1,200 rescues. (31:42)
• Our daughter, Alyssa, at 3 ½ years old, weighed 18 pounds, and was on 17 meds and a feeding tube. She went septic. It was later proved that her biological mother put human feces and urine into her feeding tube. (34:34)
• We were honored that God called us to take her in. (40:36)
• I met Chris Kyle right after he came home in ’09. (55:29)
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