Former Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia Set to Lead Fort Worth Police Department

Eddie Garcia is set to officially start his role as Fort Worth’s new police chief on Tuesday night, with a swearing-in ceremony taking place during a regular City Council meeting. He starts his new position on Wednesday, September 17. 

On Monday, city officials in Fort Worth announced the confirmation of Garcia’s appointment. Garcia, having served as the head of the Dallas Police Department for approximately three and a half years, steps in as the 28th chief of police, succeeding Neil Noakes, who retired in May.

Garcia’s choice to step down from his position as Dallas’ police chief, despite having signed a contract extension only months prior, took many by surprise. Following a three-decade career with the San Jose Police Department and his leadership of Dallas’ police force since February 2021, Garcia transitioned to a short stint as Austin’s assistant city manager for public safety. 

After just a year, Garcia recognized that his enthusiasm for law enforcement drew him back into the profession. “I’ll be honest with you, I mean, I was there – much like athletes before me, who retire and then reconsider,” Garcia said, reflecting on his shift to city management.

Garcia conveyed his appreciation and a profound sense of duty following his selection in August. “This is more than just an appointment; it is an opportunity to dedicate oneself to one of the most remarkable and nurturing cities in our nation.” “I will embrace this responsibility with every bit of energy I possess,” he stated.

Garcia's compensation package features an annual salary of $306,000, consistent with his prior earnings in Dallas. Additionally, it includes a $10,000 relocation allowance and a severance agreement that ensures 20 weeks of compensation in the event of termination without cause. In his new position, he will also be provided with a police vehicle for official responsibilities.

The Fort Worth Police Department, comprising approximately 1,900 sworn officers, is tasked with serving a city that is home to nearly 1 million residents. Interim Chief Robert Alldredge, who took the helm of the department following Noakes’ retirement, extended his congratulations to Garcia on his new appointment. “The power of this department lies not in a single person; it’s founded on the united contributions of all who don the badge,” Alldredge stated, thanking those who backed the department throughout his interim leadership.

Garcia’s appointment arrives as Fort Worth’s public safety strategies are shifting, with residents and city officials optimistic that his leadership will steer the police department through forthcoming challenges.

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