Dallas, Texas, January 9, 2026
Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux has responded to criticisms from Governor Greg Abbott regarding safety concerns that allegedly influenced AT&T’s decision to move its headquarters from downtown Dallas to Plano. Comeaux highlighted a significant drop in crime rates and improvements in public safety measures in the area. As city leaders initiate initiatives like ‘Safe in the City’ to address ongoing challenges, the dialogue continues around the factors leading to AT&T’s relocation.
Dallas Police Chief Responds to Governor Abbott’s Criticism of Downtown Safety
Dallas, Texas – Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux has countered Governor Greg Abbott’s recent remarks attributing AT&T’s decision to relocate its headquarters from downtown Dallas to Plano to the city’s public safety and homelessness challenges.
Chief Comeaux’s Response
Chief Comeaux emphasized that crime rates in downtown Dallas have been decreasing, citing a 196 arrests in the Central Business District in 2025 and an average response time of two minutes for priority one calls. He highlighted the establishment of a dedicated patrol division focusing on downtown, which includes mounted units, bike officers, and foot patrols. These efforts have contributed to a reduction in crime in the area.
Governor Abbott’s Remarks
Governor Abbott, speaking at a law enforcement event in Fort Worth, criticized Dallas leaders for not fully funding and staffing the police department and for failing to address homelessness effectively. He suggested that these shortcomings led to AT&T’s decision to move its headquarters to Plano.
City Leaders’ Perspectives
Dallas City Council member Cara Mendelsohn acknowledged the need for continued improvements in public safety but noted that the city has been making significant strides in reducing violent crime and addressing homelessness.
Background on AT&T’s Relocation
AT&T’s decision to relocate its headquarters from downtown Dallas to Plano has been a topic of discussion. While some attribute the move to public safety concerns, AT&T’s CEO did not cite crime as a reason for the company’s decision.
Ongoing Efforts in Downtown Dallas
In response to public safety concerns, Dallas leaders have initiated several measures, including the “Safe in the City” initiative, which focuses on improving quality of life in downtown. This initiative involves increased patrols, addressing homelessness, and enhancing community engagement.
Conclusion
The exchange between Chief Comeaux and Governor Abbott underscores the ongoing debate over the factors influencing AT&T’s relocation and the broader challenges related to public safety and homelessness in Dallas. City leaders continue to implement strategies aimed at enhancing safety and addressing community concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What did Governor Abbott say about Dallas’ public safety?
Governor Abbott criticized Dallas leaders for not fully funding and staffing the police department and for failing to address homelessness effectively, suggesting these issues led to AT&T’s decision to move its headquarters to Plano.
How did Chief Comeaux respond to Governor Abbott’s remarks?
Chief Comeaux highlighted improvements in downtown Dallas, including a 196 arrests in the Central Business District in 2025 and an average response time of two minutes for priority one calls. He also emphasized the establishment of a dedicated patrol division focusing on downtown.
What is the “Safe in the City” initiative?
The “Safe in the City” initiative is a public-private effort aimed at improving the quality of life in downtown Dallas. It includes increased patrols, addressing homelessness, and enhancing community engagement.
Did AT&T cite public safety as a reason for relocating?
No, AT&T’s CEO did not cite crime as a reason for the company’s decision to move its headquarters to Plano.
What are city leaders doing to address public safety concerns?
City leaders have initiated several measures, including the “Safe in the City” initiative, which focuses on improving quality of life in downtown through increased patrols, addressing homelessness, and enhancing community engagement.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Governor Abbott’s Criticism | Criticized Dallas leaders for not fully funding and staffing the police department and for failing to address homelessness effectively, suggesting these issues led to AT&T’s decision to move its headquarters to Plano. |
| Chief Comeaux’s Response | Highlighted improvements in downtown Dallas, including a 196 arrests in the Central Business District in 2025 and an average response time of two minutes for priority one calls. Emphasized the establishment of a dedicated patrol division focusing on downtown. |
| Safe in the City Initiative | A public-private effort aimed at improving the quality of life in downtown Dallas, including increased patrols, addressing homelessness, and enhancing community engagement. |
| AT&T’s Relocation | AT&T’s decision to relocate its headquarters from downtown Dallas to Plano has been a topic of discussion. While some attribute the move to public safety concerns, AT&T’s CEO did not cite crime as a reason for the company’s decision. |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
