Former Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia Named Fort Worth’s New Top Cop

City officials announced on Thursday that Eddie Garcia, who left law enforcement just a year ago, has been appointed as the new chief of the Fort Worth Police Department.

City Manager Jay Chapa has officially confirmed the appointment of Garcia, who will be introduced at a news conference on Friday morning, alongside Mayor Mattie Parker. Garcia formally takes on the role right away, succeeding former Chief Neil Noakes, who retired earlier this year.

Garcia, 53, arrives in Fort Worth with a wealth of experience, having previously held leadership roles in the San Jose and Dallas police departments and later serving as the assistant city manager for public safety in Austin. T.C. Broadnax, the then-city manager in Dallas, brought Garcia on board in 2020.

Although he is not originally from Fort Worth, Garcia believes that his fresh perspective serves as an advantage.

“While I may not be a local, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my diverse experiences across various departments, allowing me to explore new possibilities and approaches,” Garcia stated.

Garcia stressed that his focus has not wavered: tackling crime, boosting morale, and enhancing trust within the community are still at the forefront of his agenda. Garcia expressed his commitment to prompt action, departing from the approach of confident police leaders who unveil strategies over 100 days.

“If I discover a more effective way to engage with our community in the first week, I will put it into action,” he stated.

The recent appointment comes after a thorough six-month search that narrowed down the candidates to four finalists. Among them were interim Fort Worth Chief Robert Alldredge, former Dallas Deputy Chief Vernon Hale III, and Los Angeles Deputy Chief Emada Tingirides, who ultimately decided to withdraw from consideration.

Responses to Garcia’s appointment varied widely. Pastor Kyev Tatum of New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church, alongside the Ministers Justice Coalition, voiced their opposition to his candidacy, raising concerns about his dedication following his earlier retirement from law enforcement. “He’s not going to act in our best interest, and his time here will be short,” Tatum remarked.

Many met Garcia's leadership with enthusiasm. Tarrant County Commissioner Manny Ramirez hailed the appointment as a “major win for Fort Worth,” with the Fort Worth Police Officers Association lauding his vision and dedication to servant leadership.

In Dallas, union president Jaime Castro praised Garcia for implementing groundbreaking crime-fighting strategies and fostering a spirit of collaborative leadership. “He will provide you with that seat at the table.” "Prepare to put in the effort," Castro stated.

Garcia steps into the leadership role of Fort Worth’s police force, bringing with him a reputation for groundbreaking approaches and a pressing directive to make impactful changes.

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