Fort Worth Police Chief Eddie Garcia has passed the 100-day mark in his new role, outlining early priorities focused on department growth, technology expansion, coordination with federal authorities on criminal matters, and preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Garcia, who assumed leadership of the Fort Worth Police Department, said staffing remains the most immediate challenge facing the department as the city continues to grow.
“We hope to be at full staffing by the end of next year,” Garcia said, adding that he views “full staffing” as a moving target as Fort Worth expands.
Focus On Staffing And Technology
During his first three months, Garcia established a constitutional policing unit aimed at strengthening accountability while also expanding the department’s use of technology, including drones.
He said his time outside law enforcement — including serving as an assistant city manager in Austin — has shaped his leadership approach now that he has returned to wearing a uniform.
Garcia previously served as Dallas Police Chief before leaving law enforcement for city management. He said the experience reinforced the importance of coordination between departments and city leadership.
“It solidified the fact that we’re part of a greater team and that one department’s success helps the other,” Garcia said.
Position On ICE Cooperation
Garcia also addressed the department’s relationship with federal authorities, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
He said Fort Worth police will continue cooperating with federal agencies on criminal matters while emphasizing that officers do not enforce immigration law.
“At the end of the day, we’re blind to immigration status,” Garcia said. “If you’re involved in criminal activity and you’re on that immigration radar, there’s not much we’re going to be able to do about that.”
Garcia stressed the importance of transparency with residents, saying the department wants to ensure the community does not feel fearful when interacting with police.
Preparing For The 2026 World Cup
With North Texas set to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Garcia said the department is already planning for the increased demands the international event will bring.
All leave has been canceled for the tournament period to ensure adequate staffing, and Fort Worth officers are expected to support neighboring cities as needed.
“We’re going to do everything in our power to ensure it’s a safe event for all,” Garcia said, noting the tournament will take place during an already busy summer season.
Looking Ahead
Looking toward 2026, Garcia said he plans to work with city leaders during the upcoming legislative session and expand the department’s real-time crime center into a regional resource for partner cities.
He also said his long-term goal is to move Fort Worth policing toward a more data-driven, intelligence-led model.
“We’re trying to do everything we can to build the trust that’s already been built in Fort Worth,” Garcia said.
