Houston Police Chief Troy Finner announced his retirement on Wednesday, and by Thursday morning there were reports that Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia could be a candidate to replace him.
KPRC-TV in Houston cited multiple sources who said Garcia could be in the running to replace Finner, but it looks like Dallas is going to fight to keep him.
Dallas Interim City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert issued the following statement on Wednesday.
"It’s no surprise that other Texas cities are expressing interest in Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia. He has been the key leader who has delivered a lower crime rate to Dallas, and he has helped increase police morale while boosting residents’ confidence in the direction of the department.
"Obviously, City Council members and I want to keep him in Dallas doing a good job. It will take flexibility, creativity with a hefty dose of accountability to accomplish that, but we are working tirelessly to develop solutions. I believe Chief Garcia wants to remain here.
"To the cities shopping in Dallas for a new chief, I have one message for you: ‘turn around and go back home.’ In the meantime, I will keep the City Council and the public informed about the progress on these issues."
The city of Austin is also looking for a new police chief.
Garcia joined the Dallas Police Department as chief in 2021 after 29 years with the police department in San Jose, California, culminating as its chief.
KPRC reported other candidates for the Houston opening include officials from the Austin and Waco areas.
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