New Leadership for Dallas Police and Fire Departments
Introduction of New Chiefs
Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert named Daniel Comeaux to lead the Dallas Police Department on April 11 and Justin Ball to take over the reins at Dallas Fire-Rescue on April 10.
Both chiefs took their oaths of office on Wednesday, April 23 in the Dallas City Secretary’s Office and then headed to city council chambers outlining their excitement and responsibility as they take on their new roles.
Dallas Police Department’s New Chief
Comeaux is a 33-year law enforcement veteran, currently serving as Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Houston Field Division, overseeing 12 offices throughout Texas, including Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. His jurisdiction covers nearly 16,000,000 residents who live in 114 counties across 118,000 square miles, 645 of which are at the United States-Mexico border. His leadership has focused on intelligence-driven crime reduction, operational efficiency, interagency collaboration, and officer development.
A native of New Orleans, he began his career in 1991 with the Houston Police Department (HPD), he specialized in community policing, narcotics enforcement, and high-risk investigations. In 1997, he transitioned to the DEA, where he led major operations in Houston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, targeting violent crime and drug trafficking. His strategies have resulted in significant crime reduction, including a 40% decrease in overdose deaths in Laredo, Texas.
Dallas Fire-Rescue’s New Chief
As Dallas’ 18th Fire Chief, Ball will oversee a $430 million budget and lead roughly 2200 men and women who serve the public responding to fire and emergency medical services. He joined DFR in 1997 and has advanced through every rank—from firefighter paramedic to Field Deputy Chief, Executive Deputy Chief, Assistant Chief, and ultimately Executive Assistant Chief of Operations.
In June, Chief Ball assumed the role of Interim Fire Chief after Chief Dominique Artis was named the City’s first Chief of Public Safety.
Chief Ball has a bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration from Texas A&M and maintains certifications as a Master Firefighter, Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF), Fire Officer II, Fire Instructor II, Incident Commander, and Incident Safety Officer.
Originally from northeast England, he has called the Dallas area home for more than 30 years and considers DFR his extended family.
Upcoming Swearing-In Ceremony
The Chiefs will be recognized in a joint swearing in ceremony on Monday, May 5th. This will be a public event with more information coming soon.
Conclusion
The appointment of Daniel Comeaux and Justin Ball as the new chiefs of the Dallas Police Department and Dallas Fire-Rescue, respectively, marks a significant milestone for the city. With their extensive experience and expertise, they are well-equipped to lead their respective departments and ensure the safety and well-being of the community. The upcoming swearing-in ceremony will be a celebration of their new roles and a testament to their commitment to serving the city of Dallas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who are the new chiefs of the Dallas Police Department and Dallas Fire-Rescue?
A: The new chiefs are Daniel Comeaux and Justin Ball, respectively.
Q: When did they take their oaths of office?
A: They took their oaths of office on Wednesday, April 23.
Q: What is the budget for the Dallas Fire-Rescue department?
A: The budget for the Dallas Fire-Rescue department is $430 million.
Q: When is the joint swearing-in ceremony for the new chiefs?
A: The joint swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Monday, May 5th.
Q: Where can I find more information about the swearing-in ceremony?
A: More information about the ceremony will be available soon.
