Five finalists emerge in the nationwide search for the next leader of the Dallas Police Department

Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas is entering the final phase of its nationwide search for a new Chief of Police. Following a rigorous review process, City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert has narrowed down the applicant pool from 25 law enforcement leaders to five highly qualified finalists. These candidates bring extensive experience from both local departments and federal agencies, and each has a unique vision for public safety, community engagement, and innovation in law enforcement.

Finalists Bring Experience and Diverse Backgrounds

Roberto Arredondo, Jr., currently Chief of Police in Carrollton, Texas, is a 27-year law enforcement veteran with deep ties to the Dallas Police Department, where he served for 23 years before leading departments in Victoria and Carrollton. A U.S. Army veteran, Arredondo holds advanced degrees in criminal justice and public affairs. His commitment to officer training, community engagement, and public service has earned him numerous commendations, including two Certificates of Merit and a Life-Saving Award.

Brian Boetig, a retired FBI Assistant Director, brings 35 years of combined experience in public safety and consulting. During his time with the FBI, Boetig served in elite leadership roles, including Special Agent in Charge and Legal Attaché, with international assignments in the UK, Ireland, and Canada. A first responder at the Pentagon on 9/11, he has led critical operations in cybercrime, kidnappings, and counterterrorism. Boetig now works in the private sector, offering strategic consulting on security and investigations.

Daniel C. Comeaux, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Houston Field Division, oversees operations across 12 offices in Texas. His policing career began with the Houston Police Department in 1991 and led him to the DEA, where he has targeted violent drug trafficking networks and emphasized intelligence-driven crime reduction strategies. Comeaux is recognized for his leadership in reducing overdose deaths and building community trust, with a strong focus on recruitment and transparency.

Michael T. Igo, currently serving as the Interim Chief of Police in Dallas, has been with the department for 33 years. Appointed interim chief in October 2024, Igo has led multiple divisions, including Narcotics, Internal Affairs, and the Tactical Bureau. He has steadily moved up the ranks and now leads the ninth-largest police department in the country. His current priorities include officer wellness, youth engagement, public safety, and enhancing recruitment efforts to strengthen the department’s future.

Catrina M. Shead, an Assistant Chief within the Dallas Police Department, is a 30-year department veteran and currently oversees the Tactical & Operations Bureau, including SWAT and Gangs. She has responded to major critical incidents and led key bureaus such as Investigations and Homeland Security. A TCOLE Instructor and FBI National Academy graduate, Shead is known for her leadership in juvenile justice, crisis response, and strategic planning.

Community Engagement and Selection Timeline

“This search has produced an impressive pool of candidates with proven law enforcement leadership experience from a variety of agencies across the country,” said City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert. “Through the next step in this process, we will gain valuable insight into each candidate’s vision for continuing to make Dallas one of the safest large cities in the U.S., how they plan to attract and retain top talent, and innovate within the department.”

To ensure community involvement and transparency, the City has scheduled several public and internal events:

• Monday, March 31

  • 4:00–5:00 p.m.: Meet and Greet with Dallas City Council members at City Hall

  • 5:30–6:30 p.m.: Meet and Greet with feedback panel members at City Hall

• Tuesday, April 1

  • 8:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.: Panel interviews with community members, law enforcement professionals, and city officials

  • 6:00–7:30 p.m.: Public Meet and Greet at City Hall lobby

• Wednesday, April 2

  • One-on-one meetings with City Manager Tolbert and other senior City leadership

The final selection of the next Dallas Chief of Police is expected to be announced by the second week of April. This decision will mark a pivotal moment for the Dallas Police Department and the city’s future approach to public safety, trust, and accountability.