Texas Gov. Greg Abbott directed state police on Tuesday to increase security at religious sites following violent attacks on faith communities nationwide.
The move mobilizes Texas Rangers, highway patrol troopers, and special agents to protect churches, synagogues, and faith organizations across the state.
“Places of worship are sacred,” Abbott said. “We will marshal all resources necessary to safeguard our places of faith. To accomplish that objective, I directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to bolster security efforts to protect places of worship.
The enhanced security operation includes Texas Highway Patrol troopers, Criminal Investigations Division special agents, and Texas Rangers. DPS’s Homeland Security Division will support efforts to identify and prevent potential attacks.
State officials urged residents to report suspicious activities through the iWatchTexas system. The reporting platform allows Texans to alert authorities about potential threats to religious sites and schools.
Reports can be submitted through the mobile app, online at iwatchtx.org, or by calling 1-844-643-2251. Law enforcement analysts review all submissions, which remain confidential.
The free iWatchTexas app is available for iPhone and Android devices. For emergencies, officials stressed residents should still call 911 rather than using the reporting system.
The security directive comes as religious communities face heightened concerns about safety. In just the past two months, two separate attacks at religious facilities in Minnesota and Michigan claimed the lives of six people and injured 25 others.
Abbott’s order emphasizes coordination between state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies to address potential threats.