As Fort Worth braces itself for a changing of the guard in the police department, the City Council has taken a step to ensure there's no lapse in leadership. According to an announcement by the City of Fort Worth, today, they're slated to vote on a measure that would slot Executive Assistant Chief Robert Alldredge into the interim police chief position. Alldredge will hold the reins until the city crowns its next permanent chief.
A rightful tip of the hat is due to the soon-to-be-retired Police Chief Neil Noakes, who will end his over 25-year tenure with the city on May 31. Starting on June 1, assuming the council gives the nod, Alldredge will serve as the interim leadership baton. Mosaic Public Partners has been conducting the search for Noakes' successor since April.
The shift in command aligns with the Texas Local Government Code's mandate, as Fort Worth needs a chief to navigate the waters of law and order at all times—a city manager appointee, to be precise. However, the community isn't just looking on from the sidelines; they're expected to engage with the finalists later this summer, as the city's exhaustive hunt for a new chief is projected to wrap up in August.
Robert Alldredge isn't exactly a stranger to the precinct. Having started the police work grind in 1999, he's patrolled through the ranks—officer, corporal, sergeant, you name it. From the beat to the boardroom, his dossier spells experience in the Tactical Operations Division, Professional Standards Division, Central Patrol Division, and more. According to his biography provided by the City, he earned his stripes, literally and educationally, with degrees in Criminal Justice from Tarleton State University and a seasoned background in both the FBI National Academy and the U.S. Air Force. On October 1, 2022, having previously served in the community alliance among other commands, Alldredge was promoted to Executive Assistant Chief.
