DALLAS, Texas - Dallas Police Department Chief of Police Edgardo (Eddie) Garcia has accepted a position on Special Olympics Texas’ (SOTX) Board of Directors representing the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR). The LETR is Special Olympics’ largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle in the world. Chief Garcia has been involved with Special Olympics Texas for many years and has participated in various events, including the organization’s Polar Plunge, Final Leg Run, the Breakfast with Champions fundraiser, and provided support for the International LETR Conference.

Chief Eddie Garcia was appointed as the 30th Police Chief of the Dallas Police Department in 2021. He is originally from Puerto Rico and served as the Chief of Police for the San Jose Police Department before taking his position in Dallas. His direct leadership style, partnered with his modern policing practices, has allowed the police chief to help connect the community to law enforcement and decrease crime within Dallas.  

Chief Garcia will aim to help develop new initiatives and determine the best practices to help grow Special Olympics Texas’ LETR reach. His experience within the organization at all levels has prepared him to represent the organization’s law enforcement team to develop a greater LETR impact on communities throughout Texas. “Special Olympics is so much more than sports. It is an organization that promotes positivity, inclusion, and personal achievement,” says Chief Garcia.

Chief Eddie Garcia will take his position this month and begin serving alongside 25 other members of the Board. His exceptional leadership qualities through public relations, public awareness, fundraising, and program accomplishments on behalf of Special Olympics Texas have provided Chief Garcia with the expertise to serve the organization’s mission and goals for the future. “As a police chief, and a fan and supporter,  I have seen this organization in action, and the positive impact it makes on athletes and the community,” says Chief Garcia. “I’m proud to be an advocate for this organization and to be a part of making a difference and moving the organization forward.”