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Key Takeaways:

• Eddie Garcia, former Dallas and San Jose police chief, is now Fort Worth’s 28th chief.
• Some residents are wary about the late submission of his application.
• Garcia’s leadership in Dallas included a plan that reduced violent crime for four consecutive years.
• Community activists emphasize the need for strong outreach and transparency.
• Fort Worth’s city manager will soon provide details on his start date and next steps.

Introduction

Eddie Garcia has been named the 28th police chief of the Fort Worth Police Department, a decision announced by Fort Worth City Manager Jesus “Jay” Chapa. The announcement concludes a search that began after Chief Neil Noakes retired in December 2024 and officially stepped down in May 2025.

Background and Selection Process

Garcia’s path to the chief’s position in Fort Worth came with some controversy. Although early finalists had been narrowed to four, Garcia’s application reportedly arrived after the stated deadline, leading some community members and City Council Member Chris Nettles to question the hiring process. Despite these concerns, many local figures acknowledge Garcia’s strong track record and the potential for fresh leadership.

Garcia’s Experience and Record

Before heading to Fort Worth, Garcia led the Dallas Police Department from February 2021 until his sudden departure in October 2024. During that time, the department implemented a violent crime plan credited with reducing violent crime in Dallas for four consecutive years. Following his Dallas tenure, Garcia relocated to Austin in November 2024 to serve as Assistant City Manager for public safety. Reflecting on his brief time away from day-to-day policing, Garcia remarked that he realized he was “born to be a police officer.”

Community Reactions

Local leaders and residents in Fort Worth have been vocal in their opinions about Garcia’s appointment. Tarrant County Commissioner Manny Ramirez noted that Garcia’s background in North Texas gives him “an absolute advantage” and that the city has closely watched his leadership style. Community activist Bob Ray Sanders expressed eagerness to see Garcia engage directly on the streets of Fort Worth, remarking, “We need community involvement from the chief. We don’t need him just sitting in his office.”

Chris Nettles, a Fort Worth City Council member, acknowledges the lingering frustration over the hiring process but says he is focused on supporting Garcia’s transition. “Moving forward, we have to set clear deadlines,” Nettles said, referring to the circumstances around Garcia’s late application.

Addressing Immigration and Other Challenges

For many residents, immigration issues remain at the forefront. LULAC’s Hector Flores encourages Fort Worth’s new chief to be collaborative yet cautious when partnering with federal agencies to ensure that the community’s trust is upheld. Officials also hope Garcia’s strategies in Dallas—particularly his approach to reducing crime and building partnerships—will translate well to addressing Fort Worth’s evolving challenges.

Next Steps

Garcia’s official start date and the department’s immediate priorities will be announced by City Manager Jesus “Jay” Chapa during a Friday news conference at Fort Worth City Hall. Until then, city leaders and community voices share a common goal: to unite around Fort Worth’s new top cop and foster productive relationships between the police force and residents.