Fort Worth Police Chief Neil Noakes will retire from law enforcement in May 2025, concluding more than 25 years of dedicated service to the City of Fort Worth and its police department.
Noakes joined the Fort Worth Police Department (FWPD) on May 30, 2000, and became chief of police in 2021 under the appointment of City Manager David Cooke. Reflecting on his career, Noakes expressed mixed emotions about his decision.
“My emotions are mixed because I have been with the FWPD for half my life and have truly enjoyed my career. Being part of our FWPD family has been an incredible honor and a privilege,” Noakes said. “I work with amazing people who strive to make a positive difference every day. My decision comes down to family...It’s time for me to focus on my family.”
During his tenure, Noakes held roles in several divisions, including Patrol, DWI, Motors, and Internal Affairs. As chief, he championed initiatives such as the department’s Wellness Unit and youth engagement programs like Operation Progress, Read2Win, and the City of Fort Worth’s Education Initiative.
City Manager David Cooke praised Noakes for his commitment to community-based policing and reducing crime in a rapidly growing city. “Chief Noakes brought 20-plus years of community-based law enforcement experience to the chief’s office — but even more important, he brought a desire for genuine engagement with the residents we serve,” Cooke said.
Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker also commended Noakes, emphasizing his leadership during challenging times. “He has led the Fort Worth Police Department through some of the most difficult times our city has faced with humility, transparency and compassion for the community as his top priority,” Parker said. “He is truly leaving this department better than he found it.”
Noakes’ academic achievements include degrees from Tarleton State University and Texas Christian University, and he is a graduate of the Southern Police Institute and TCU’s Leadership, Executive, and Administrative Development Program.
The FWPD will begin planning for the transition of leadership in the months leading up to Noakes’ retirement.
