Fort Worth, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Fort Worth has appointed Eddie García as its new police chief following the retirement of Neil Noakes. García, with over 30 years of law enforcement experience, was selected from a competitive field of candidates and previously served as chief of the Dallas Police Department. His appointment marks a critical transition for the Fort Worth Police Department, aiming to address public safety concerns. Community reactions have been mixed, but local officials have expressed support for García’s leadership.
Fort Worth has officially appointed Eddie García as its next police chief, following the retirement of former chief Neil Noakes in May 2025. This announcement was made by Fort Worth City Manager Jay Chapa on Thursday, marking a significant leadership transition for the Fort Worth Police Department. García was selected from a competitive pool of more than 50 applicants and stood out as one of the three finalists for the position.
Prior to his selection as Fort Worth’s police chief, García served as the chief of the Dallas Police Department from February 2021 until October 2024. He also held a role as an assistant city manager in Austin after leaving Dallas, during which time he recognized his passion for policing, prompting his return to law enforcement. The other finalists for the Fort Worth police chief role included Interim Police Chief Robert Alldredge and former Dallas Deputy Chief Vernon Hale.
As Fort Worth’s 28th police chief, García brings a vast array of experience, boasting over 30 years in law enforcement. His notable tenure in Dallas is characterized by a focus on data-driven policing, community engagement, and the vital task of rebuilding public trust within the police force. During his leadership, the department achieved a significant reduction in crime rates and improved internal morale among officers.
García’s appointment follows a community forum that highlighted various public safety issues within Fort Worth, a matter of concern for local residents and officials. The community’s reaction has been mixed; while some residents express ultimate support for García’s experience and leadership, others have raised concerns regarding the selection process and its transparency.
Support for García’s leadership nomination came from various local officials, including Tarrant County Commissioner Manny Ramirez and the Fort Worth Police Officers Association, both of whom commended his extensive experience in law enforcement. Fort Worth’s Mayor Mattie Parker also expressed strong support, highlighting the importance of this appointment for enhancing public safety and fostering community trust.
A formal introduction of Eddie García as the new police chief is scheduled for Friday morning at Fort Worth City Hall, where he will outline his vision and plans for the police department moving forward.
Background Context
The role of Fort Worth’s police chief became available after chief Neil Noakes retired in May 2025. García’s selection comes at a crucial time for the department, as recent community forums have sought to address pressing public safety concerns. Prior to this role, García led the San Jose Police Department from 2016 to 2021, further solidifying his reputation in law enforcement leadership.
Key Features of the Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Eddie García |
| Previous Position | Police Chief of Dallas |
| Years of Experience | Over 30 years |
| Finalists | Robert Alldredge, Vernon Hale |
| Community Reaction | Mixed responses |
| Formal Introduction | Friday morning at City Hall |
FAQ Section
Who is the new police chief of Fort Worth?
Eddie García has been appointed as the new police chief of Fort Worth.
What prompted García’s return to policing?
During his time as an assistant city manager in Austin, he realized he was “born to be a cop,” which led him to return to law enforcement.
How was García selected as chief?
He was chosen from a pool of over 50 applicants and was one of three finalists for the role.
What experience does García bring to Fort Worth?
García has over 30 years of law enforcement experience, having previously served as chief of both the Dallas and San Jose Police Departments.
When will García be formally introduced as chief?
A formal introduction is scheduled for Friday morning at Fort Worth City Hall.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Fox 4 News
- Wikipedia: Eddie Garcia (police chief)
- WFAA
- Google Search: Eddie Garcia Fort Worth Police Chief
- CBS News Texas
- Google Scholar: Eddie Garcia Fort Worth Police Chief
- NBC DFW
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Eddie Garcia Police Chief
- Star-Telegram
- Google News: Eddie Garcia Fort Worth Police Chief
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