Public input, transparency, and leadership experience take center stage as Dallas enters the final phase of choosing a new police chief from a diverse and competitive field of highly qualified candidates

Dallas, Texas – After an extensive nationwide search, the City of Dallas has named five finalists for the next Chief of Police. Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert announced the narrowed list from a pool of 25 candidates, highlighting a mix of local and national law enforcement leaders.

Among the finalists are both internal and external figures with deep experience in policing and public safety. Representing the Dallas Police Department are Interim Chief Michael T. Igo and Assistant Chief Catrina M. Shead. Joining them are three external candidates: Roberto Arredondo, Jr., Chief of the Carrollton Police Department; Brian Boetig, a retired Assistant Director with the FBI; and Daniel C. Comeaux, Special Agent in Charge for the DEA’s Houston Field Division.

City Manager Tolbert praised the quality of applicants explaining that this search has produced an impressive pool of candidates with proven law enforcement leadership experience from a variety of agencies across the country. Tolbert emphasized that the next steps will allow the city to better understand each candidate’s goals, particularly regarding public safety, officer recruitment, and innovation within the department.

The selection process continues with a series of public and internal events designed to gather feedback and provide transparency. On Monday, March 31, candidates will first meet with City Council members from 4 to 5 p.m., followed by a session with feedback panel members from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., all taking place at City Hall.

On Tuesday, April 1, a full day of interviews and discussions with feedback panels—including community members, law enforcement experts, and city officials—is scheduled. That evening, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., the public will have the opportunity to meet the finalists during an open event in the City Hall lobby.

The final stage on Wednesday, April 2, includes individual meetings between the candidates, City Manager Tolbert, and Dallas’ senior leadership team.

A final decision is expected by the second week of April. The new police chief will step into a critical leadership role as Dallas continues its efforts to strengthen community trust, improve public safety, and guide the department into the future.

To learn more about the each of the candidates, click here.