Daniel Comeaux, a veteran Drug Enforcement Administration agent with over 33 years in law enforcement, has been appointed the new Dallas Police Department Chief.
He will officially assume the role on April 23, after a nationwide search culminated in his selection to lead one of the nation’s largest police departments.
“Dallas needs Chief Comeaux to be a dynamic leader who can thoughtfully and resolutely work to keep our citizens safe,” said Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. “Thankfully, Chief Comeaux will bring unique experience to this especially challenging role. As a former Houston police officer and as a commander who has spent years fighting the scourge of illicit drugs such as fentanyl in urban neighborhoods and in border communities at the federal level, he understands that public safety is foundational to building stronger cities.”
Comeaux most recently served as Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Houston Field Division, overseeing 12 offices across South, Central, and East Texas. His jurisdiction covered 114 counties, 118,000 square miles, and 645 miles of the U.S.–Mexico border.
Under his leadership, Laredo experienced a 40% decrease in overdose deaths. His experience spans both local and federal law enforcement, beginning with the Houston Police Department in 1991 before joining the DEA in 1997.
“Special Agent in Charge Comeaux has consistently demonstrated a proven track record of successfully addressing complex crime challenges across large-scale, diverse populations and geographic areas—including internationally,” said Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert.
In his new role, Comeaux will manage a $720 million budget and oversee approximately 3,700 employees, including 3,100 police officers. His appointment as Dallas Police Chief comes with significant challenges. Among these is Proposition U, which mandates increasing the DPD staff to 4,000 officers.
Comeaux’s vision emphasizes continuing crime reduction, enhancing recruitment, and strengthening public trust.
“I joined the police force because I witnessed what can happen to neighborhoods that aren’t safe,” Comeaux explained, highlighting his collaborative approach to tackling crime challenges.
“I am proud that my career in law enforcement has come full circle and look forward to serving alongside the men and women of the Dallas Police Department.”