Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to strengthen security around religious sites following an increase in violent incidents targeting faith communities across the United States. The operation, carried out in collaboration with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, aims to improve safety at churches, synagogues, and other faith-based organizations throughout Texas.
“Places of worship are sacred,” said Governor Abbott. “We will marshal all resources necessary to safeguard our places of faith. To accomplish that objective, I directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to bolster security efforts to protect places of worship.”
The DPS operation will involve Texas Highway Patrol troopers, special agents from the Criminal Investigations Division, and Texas Rangers. These personnel will be supported by DPS’ Homeland Security Division as they work together to identify threats and prevent attacks before they occur.
Residents are also encouraged to use the iWatchTexas Community Reporting System for reporting suspicious activity near schools, places of worship, or within their communities that could indicate criminal or terroristic threats. Reports can be made through a mobile app available for both iPhone and Android devices, online at www.iwatchtx.org, or by calling 1-844-643-2251. Submissions are confidential and reviewed by law enforcement analysts.
Officials remind Texans that iWatchTexas is not intended for emergency situations; emergencies should still be reported via 9-1-1.
