Police association leaders unite in support of retaining Dallas chief

DALLAS – No news is worrisome news for many Dallas police officers waiting for news on Chief Eddie Garcia’s future.

Although no one has confirmed it, it’s an open secret that Dallas’ popular top cop will likely soon consider an offer to take over the Houston Police Department.

Leaders of several Dallas Police Officer Associations stood together in a rare show of solidarity for a cause.

“To make every effort, to pull out all the stops, to retain and retain Chief Garcia,” said Sgt. George Aranda of the National Latino Law Enforcement Organization.

Aranda was joined by the leaders of the Dallas Police Association and the Asian Peace Officer Association at a joint news conference to encourage Dallas city leaders to quickly reach an agreement to stop Garcia from potentially taking the same job in Houston.

“He is the best boss in America today and the whole country knows it,” said Sr. Cpl. Jaime Castro of the Dallas Police Association.

“He boosted the morale of the Dallas Police Department and reduced crime. So what else can we ask of a police chief,” said Lt. Paul Thai of the Asian Peace Officers Association.

Task force leaders, who represent most of DPD’s 3,100 officers, also attacked the city, which is believed to be courting Garcia.

Earlier Friday, Garcia took part in a Special Olympics torch relay but refused to answer questions about his professional status.

There is no indication that Dallas made an offer to entice Garcia to stay, especially since a contract is prohibited by the city charter.