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Dallas Holds Joint Swearing-In for New Police and Fire Chiefs
Summary
A joint ceremony at Concord Church in Dallas formally sworn in Justin Ball as Dallas Fire Rescue chief and Daniel Como as Dallas Police chief; city leaders highlighted recent crime reductions and pledged renewed focus on recruitment and community policing.
Dallas officials held a joint swearing-in ceremony in Dallas to install Justin Ball as chief of Dallas Fire Rescue and Daniel Como as chief of the Dallas Police Department. City leaders used the event to frame public safety as a top priority and to outline immediate leadership commitments.
Mayor Bridal Johnson welcomed attendees and named the two chiefs, saying Dallas is in its "fourth consecutive year of violent crime reduction" and that "violent crime has fallen more than 12% citywide with homicides down an astonishing 44%." He credited data-driven strategies and investments, including the city's 2024 bond program and the annual budget, for the improvements.
City Manager Kimberly Beiser Tolbert presented the badges for both chiefs, noting Chief Ball brings nearly 28 years of experience with Dallas Fire Rescue and that Chief Como arrived in Dallas with 33 years in law enforcement at the local and federal level. Deputy regional director Giovanni Catanet Zara read letters of congratulations from U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz to both chiefs.
Judge Sarah Martinez administered the oath to Justin Ball, who pledged to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and laws" and later told the audience he was humbled by the appointment. Ball recounted his nearly 28-year career in the fire service, thanked family and department colleagues, and said, "I'll be decisive. I'll give clear direction, and I will take responsibility for my decisions. I promise leadership that's accountable."
Judge Dale Tillery administered the oath to Daniel Como. In his remarks, Como thanked supporters and said he planned to "listen, and learn" as he begins the job. He highlighted ongoing efforts, saying "Right now, we have started Operation Justice Trail. The fugitive team is out working every single day," and set recruitment and retention goals, urging residents to help by acting as "effective recruiters."
Religious leaders provided invocation and benediction during the program; Father Jacob de Casa delivered the opening invocation and Rabbi David Stern offered the benediction. The ceremony concluded with an invitation to a reception in the lobby and photographs on stage.
The swearing-in was ceremonial rather than a policy vote; both chiefs presented commitments to community engagement, personnel support, and continued efforts to reduce violent crime. A reception and staged photographs followed the formal program.
