The city of Dallas on Friday named Michael Igo as interim police chief, placing the top Dallas Police Department commander at the helm of a force of about 3,100 as it navigates recent challenges, including the departure of Chief Eddie García.
Igo, 58, who has served since February as one of García’s second in commands, will lead the Dallas Police Department starting Oct. 18, according to a city news release. In an email to officers obtained by The Dallas Morning News, Igo said he “will remain steadfast and unwavering” in keeping Dallas one of the safest large cities in the country, noting he has served at every rank in his 33 years with Dallas police.
“Change is inevitable; however, change brings new opportunities that will lead to personal and professional growth,” Igo wrote. “As your Chief, I will hold each member of this Department accountable. In return, I will hold myself to an even higher standard. I will continue to wear this badge with pride each day — in the good times and bad.”
Interim City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert said in a news release that she’s confident Igo will provide continuity, highlighting his “experience, trust within the community and knowledge of the department.”
“He is the right person at the right time for this assignment,” Tolbert said. “Chief Igo has been unwavering in his commitment to his service in uniform. He will continue the Dallas Police Department’s focus on safety, our number one priority.”
Police officials describe Igo as well-respected, professional and a leader who demands excellence.
Many police officials think of him as the front-runner to become Dallas’ next chief, who will likely be chosen by the next city manager. That’s somewhat complicated because Dallas has an interim city manager. The City Council has not given a clear timeline for the hire.
As DPD’s executive assistant chief, Igo has overseen each of the patrol divisions, training and recruiting. He has been with the department since 1992 and rose through the ranks quickly in García’s administration, first serving as a deputy chief over tactical operations such as SWAT, then overseeing patrol as an assistant chief.
Igo will handle a $719 million budget and will likely face challenges in the wake of García’s departure. García leaves for Austin on Nov. 1 to work for former boss T.C. Broadnax.
In November, Dallas residents will vote on ballot initiatives, including one that could mandate the city hire about 900 more cops. Police and fire officials are contending with a $3 billion shortfall in the Dallas Police and Fire Pension System. And the department is still healing from the fatal shooting of Officer Darron Burks in August.
Igo is seen as softer-spoken than García, but has made a fair share of public appearances. He has taken part in a roundtable discussion about fentanyl with Texas Sen. John Cornyn and presented information on topics to the Dallas City Council, such as median enforcement and reducing the amount of overtime hours officers work.
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