DALLAS/FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF)- Three DFW police departments are searching for a new police chief. The most recent resignation, Dallas Chief Renee Hall. Hall will stay with the department until the end of the year. Same for Fort Worth Chief Ed Kraus who resigned earlier this summer.
Also, Arlington Police Chief Will Johnson recently stepping away from his post.
Manny Ramirez President of the Fort Worth Police Officers Association said its unprecedented times and speaks to the fact that officers from all over are leaving this profession, in high numbers.
“It’ll be a unique process this time around especially with the added competition having Arlington and Dallas searching for a new leader as well but I think all options should be on the table whether it’s internal or external,” said Ramirez.
All departments expect to conduct a national search.
Fort Worth Assistant City Manger Jay Chapa said Fort Worth is also considering officers within the department.
“We thought it made sense to conduct the national search and if the best person is right here under our nose that would be great but we would like to have something to compare that with,” said Chapa.
Chapa points out each department offers something different and isn’t too concerned really about ‘competing’ with other cities in the area.
“It could be Dallas gets the best person for Dallas and that person is not even one of finalists for Fort Worth and vise versa because they might not be a good fit for what we’re looking for compared to what they’re looking for,” said Chapa.
The city of Fort Worth has created a survey for residents to give input on what qualities they would like to see in a new chief. It’s available through 5 p.m. Sept. 22.