FORT WORTH — In a significant development for local law enforcement, Eddie García has been appointed as the new chief of the Fort Worth Police Department, marking his return to a leadership role in policing less than a year after retiring from his position as the Dallas police chief.
García, who stepped into view for a press conference at Fort Worth City Hall in a sharp navy suit, expressed his commitment to overseeing public safety with integrity and accountability. He emphasized his eagerness to work ‘tirelessly’ for the residents of Fort Worth.
Having left Dallas voluntarily last year for a role as assistant city manager in Austin, García explained his decision to transition back into a police chief role in Fort Worth. Before leading the Dallas police for approximately 3½ years, García spent around three decades with the San Jose Police Department, culminating in his position as chief.
The city of Dallas fought to retain García, even offering him the highest salary for a police chief in Texas to stay. Ultimately, he made the move to Austin to join T.C. Broadnax, the former Dallas City Manager who had taken the lead in Austin a few months prior.
In an interview with The Dallas Morning News, García acknowledged that some Dallas residents might find his return puzzling, particularly considering he now leads a different department in a similar capacity. He conveyed deep gratitude for the sacrifices made by the Dallas Police Department’s personnel during his tenure, expressing continued affection for the team.
‘We are partners here in the D-FW area,’ he stated, highlighting a regional connection in public safety.
Pending a City Council vote set for September 18, García is expected to assume his role on September 22. His appointment came after a careful selection process, where he was chosen from a competitive pool of 50 applicants. García stood out against two finalists: interim Chief Robert Alldredge of the Fort Worth Police Department who has extensive experience, and former Dallas deputy chief Vernon Hale.
Fort Worth city leaders, including Mayor Mattie Parker and City Manager Jesus ‘Jay’ Chapa, expressed enthusiasm about García’s selection, underscoring his reputation as a ‘tested and proven’ leader. They praised his ability to build relationships within the community and maintain healthy officer relationships.
García made it clear his goal as police chief is to significantly improve public safety, enhance community engagement, and expand the department. He plans to take a ‘ferocious’ approach to recruitment in a bid to bolster the police force and meet the community’s safety needs.
‘Every resident in this city deserves to feel safe in their home, in their neighborhoods and our streets,’ García said during the news conference. He reassured the public of their right to be treated with dignity and respect by the police department and emphasized the department’s commitment to earning and maintaining public trust on a daily basis.
During his time in Dallas, García was recognized for his focus on data-driven policing strategies and efforts to rebuild trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. As Dallas’ first Latino police chief, he garnered national attention for his innovative practices in law enforcement, making significant strides in community relations.
García’s move back to the region comes at a time when the Fort Worth Police Department is undergoing a transition following the retirement of former Chief Neil Noakes in May. Alldredge, who was appointed interim chief after Noakes’ retirement, will assist García during the changeover.
Part of García’s decision to leave Dallas was motivated by personal reasons, including his desire to be closer to his son and newborn grandson. However, he soon realized he missed the direct involvement that comes with leading a police department.
In Dallas, García received a salary increase to $306,440 annually as part of efforts to retain him amid interest from other cities looking to fill their police leadership positions. When he moved to Austin, his base salary was set at $327,600.
While Syed, a city spokesperson, did not provide specific details about García’s new salary in Fort Worth, she mentioned it was in the process of being finalized.
Despite his brief time in Austin, García noted he is ‘incredibly grateful’ for the experiences there, which he believes will enhance his effectiveness as Fort Worth’s police chief.
Ultimately, García expressed a renewed desire to contribute to law enforcement and a strong desire to return to active policing. As he prepares for this new chapter in his professional career, García shared his honor at being selected for this pivotal role in Fort Worth.
His appointment is expected to usher in a new era for policing in Fort Worth, with García’s extensive experience and community-oriented vision setting the stage for his leadership in public safety.
The upcoming City Council vote on September 18 will officially confirm his role, and the community eagerly anticipates his plan for moving forward.
image source from：dallasnews
