Fort Worth confirms Robert Aldridge as interim police chief as Nokes retires

The Fort Worth City Council confirmed Assistant Chief Robert Aldridge as the interim chief of the Fort Worth Police Department and marked the pending retirement of Chief Nilsn (Nils?) Nokes, who is set to retire May 30.

Mayor and council considered Resolution 255082 to confirm the interim appointment. Multiple council members offered public remarks thanking Chief Nokes for his service and expressing support for Aldridge. Council member Carlos Flores said he had "the utmost confidence" in Aldridge's experience and character when moving the appointment. Council member C. J. Williams told the chamber, "You have literally saved lives time and time again," in remarks honoring Chief Nokes's career. Several council members described Aldridge as a long‑time department leader and praised his readiness to assume interim duties.

The council moved and seconded the confirmation and the motion carried by voice vote. Council members emphasized continuity in leadership during the departmenttransition and thanked Nokes for decades of service.

Council members also discussed the department's work on public safety and community partnerships. The appointment is interim while the city proceeds with a chief search; the resolution directs city staff to finalize administrative steps needed for the transition.

The confirmation vote was recorded in open session; the resolution passed and Aldridge will serve in the interim role pending the completion of the department's permanent chief selection process.