DALLAS, Texas — Demolition has begun at the former Cole Manor Motel on Harry Hines Boulevard, marking the culmination of a years-long effort by local, state and federal authorities to shut down a property long associated with criminal activity.
The property, located in the 7000 block of Harry Hines Boulevard, has been identified by law enforcement as a center for prostitution, organized drug trafficking and violent crime for decades.
According to officials, the City of Dallas initiated a code compliance case against the property's owners in 2024. The effort intensified in February 2025 when a Drug Enforcement Administration operation resulted in the execution of a large-scale search warrant at the motel, leading to multiple federal convictions.
The City of Dallas later filed a criminal nuisance lawsuit that ultimately resulted in the closure of the property and plans for its demolition. Federal authorities also issued notices of intent to pursue criminal charges against property owners and managers.
"Yesterday marked the beginning of the end for a property that for decades has been associated with criminal activity and victimization in our community," Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux said in a statement.
Comeaux described the demolition as the result of a coordinated effort among local, state and federal agencies focused on creating a long-term solution rather than repeatedly responding to criminal activity at the site.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould of the Northern District of Texas said authorities will continue targeting businesses that knowingly facilitate drug trafficking and other criminal conduct.
"This should serve as a warning of things to come for other businesses that fail to take security measures and implement basic compliance features to identify, report, and prevent crime from occurring on premises," Raybould said.
DEA Dallas Special Agent in Charge Joseph B. Tucker said the motel had become a hub for street gangs involved in narcotics distribution, illegal firearms trafficking, prostitution and violent crime.
"That ends now," Tucker said. "By dismantling the infrastructure that enabled drug trafficking and violent crime, we are protecting our neighborhoods and helping save American lives."
Authorities said demolition work began June 17 and is expected to continue through July 8, weather permitting.
The project involved collaboration among the Dallas Police Department, the Dallas City Attorney's Office, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Texas, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Carrollton Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
