More police patrols at Fort Worth Stockyards

Fort Worth’s renowned Stockyards area is receiving increased attention from law enforcement with the deployment of a new police team in recent weeks, as Officer Jimmy Pollozani confirmed.

“From Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., we have officers out here on bike patrol, foot patrol, doing high-visibility patrol,” Pollozani stated.

He explained that each officer’s shift includes a mix of different patrol methods, with officers alternating between bike and foot patrols.

Pollozani emphasized the advantages of bike patrols, noting that officers on bicycles can navigate traffic more efficiently and respond to service calls quicker than those in vehicles.

Council member Carlos Flores, whose district encompasses the Stockyards, is advocating for additional resources for a dedicated bike patrol in the area.

“Recently, specialized bicycles and equipment were donated to the Northwest Division for the division’s own bike patrol. In addition to specialized bicycles and equipment, there is necessary training for Bike Patrol officers,” Flores wrote in an email to NBC 5.

Pollozani mentioned that the heightened patrol is in response to increased foot traffic in the area, a sentiment echoed by Flores, who anticipates a rise in tourism during the upcoming summer months.

“We’re just trying to be proactive to ensure their safety, so when they come to Fort Worth, they feel safe,” Pollozani remarked.

According to data shared by Fort Worth Police Executive Assistant Chief Robert Alldredge, the Stockyards experienced more violent crimes than the W. 7th Entertainment District between March 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024.

Flores highlighted the positive outcomes resulting from the increased police presence in the Stockyards, including reduced noise complaints and enhanced enforcement against reckless driving and unauthorized vehicles on public streets.

He emphasized the need for sustainable safety measures while interim steps are implemented.

“The increased police presence in the Stockyards and N. Main Street have produced measurable results and positive feedback from visitors and residents,” Flores stated.

Additionally, city council members approved a budget increase for the Stockyards’ Public Improvement District (PID), with additional funds allocated for security, including officer patrols.

Business owner Fred Barnett, a PID taxpayer, hopes that the enhanced security measures benefit all stakeholders in the Stockyards, particularly during late-night hours when bars are in operation.

“The more police presence that we can have out on the streets, obviously the safer everybody’s going to be,” Barnett expressed.