Fort Worth, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Eddie Garcia has been named the new police chief of the Fort Worth Police Department, following a selection process that raised community concerns. While Garcia brings extensive experience from his previous roles in Dallas and San Jose, the timing of his application sparked mixed reactions among residents. The city looks forward to Garcia’s leadership, focusing on public safety and community engagement as priorities. A news conference will provide further details on Garcia’s start date and initiatives planned for his tenure.
Fort Worth
Eddie Garcia has been appointed as the 28th police chief of the Fort Worth Police Department, city officials announced. The appointment was confirmed by Fort Worth City Manager Jesus ‘Jay’ Chapa in a news release on Thursday afternoon. A news conference to announce Chief Garcia’s official start date and next steps is scheduled for Friday at 11 a.m. at Fort Worth City Hall.
Key details
Garcia was selected from a field of four finalists after a city search for a new chief. The finalist group included interim Chief Robert Alldredge and former Dallas Police Deputy Chief Vernon Hale. Some community members raised concerns about the timing of Garcia’s application, which was submitted after the initial application deadline. Despite those concerns, city leaders completed the selection process and moved forward with the appointment.
Selection context and community response
The selection generated mixed reactions across the community. Supporters noted Garcia’s regional experience and familiarity with North Texas, a factor highlighted by Tarrant County Commissioner Manny Ramirez. Others, including community leaders, urged the new chief to prioritize steady community engagement and visible outreach rather than working primarily from the office. City Council Member Chris Nettles signaled concerns related to the timing of Garcia’s application rather than his professional qualifications.
Professional background
Garcia previously served as chief of the Dallas Police Department from February 2021 until his departure in October 2024. After leaving Dallas, he moved into municipal administration in Austin where he served as an assistant city manager overseeing public safety. Prior to Dallas, Garcia was police chief in San Jose, California, serving in that role for nearly five years.
Garcia began his law enforcement career in 1992 and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Management. During his time in Dallas, he led a focused violent crime strategy that city officials say produced reductions in violent crime for four consecutive years. Those outcomes were cited by supporters as evidence of his operational experience in addressing safety challenges.
Why Garcia applied and local ties
City officials and Garcia indicated personal and family reasons factored into his decision to seek the Fort Worth post. Returning to North Texas would bring him closer to family members, including his mother and his daughter, according to information provided by the city. Local leaders also noted that his prior service in Dallas gives him familiarity with regional policing issues and partner agencies.
Vacancy and transition
The Fort Worth chief position became vacant after former Chief Neil Noakes announced his retirement in December 2024 and formally stepped down in May 2025. Interim arrangements were in place while the city conducted its national search and finalist interviews. City officials said the coming news conference will outline the transition timeline and any immediate priorities for the new chief.
Next steps
Officials expect to provide a formal start date and outline initial actions at the scheduled news conference on Friday. The city’s leadership has described public safety and community engagement as central priorities for the department going forward. Residents and community groups have been encouraged to follow the city’s announcements for details about public meetings, listening sessions, or opportunities to meet the new chief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new Fort Worth police chief?
The new chief is Eddie Garcia, appointed as the 28th police chief of the Fort Worth Police Department.
When was the appointment announced?
The appointment was announced by Fort Worth City Manager Jesus ‘Jay’ Chapa in a news release on Thursday afternoon. A news conference to share the start date and next steps is scheduled for Friday at 11 a.m. at Fort Worth City Hall.
How was Garcia selected?
Garcia was chosen from four finalists in the city’s search for a new chief. Finalists included interim Chief Robert Alldredge and former Dallas Police Deputy Chief Vernon Hale.
Were there any concerns about the appointment?
Some community members raised concerns about the timing of Garcia’s application, which was submitted late. Other community voices emphasized the need for strong community engagement from the new chief.
What are Garcia’s qualifications?
Garcia has decades of law enforcement experience, having started his career in 1992. He served as Dallas police chief from 2021 to 2024, was previously chief in San Jose for nearly five years, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Management.
What will change under the new leadership?
City officials have identified public safety and community engagement as priorities. Details about specific plans and timelines are expected at the upcoming news conference.
Key features at a glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Position | 28th Police Chief of Fort Worth |
| Selection | Chosen from 4 finalists |
| Previous roles | Dallas Police Chief (2021–2024), San Jose Police Chief (~5 years), Austin assistant city manager (public safety) |
| Law enforcement experience | Since 1992 (more than 30 years) |
| Notable achievements | Led a violent crime plan that reduced violent crime for four consecutive years in Dallas |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 4 News: Eddie Garcia Fort Worth Police Chief
- Wikipedia: Eddie Garcia
- WFAA: Eddie Garcia Fort Worth Police Chief
- Google Search: Eddie Garcia Fort Worth Police Chief
- CBS News: Fort Worth Police Eddie Garcia DPD Chief
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Eddie Garcia
- NBC DFW: Eddie Garcia New Fort Worth Police Chief
- Google News: Eddie Garcia Fort Worth Police Chief
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
DALLAS STAFF 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.
