Texas Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to enhance security measures around places of worship in response to an increase in violent incidents targeting religious sites nationwide. The operation, coordinated with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, will focus on 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 will carry out this mission through a collaboration involving Texas Highway Patrol troopers, special agents from the Criminal Investigations Division, and Texas Rangers. These efforts will be supported by the DPS’ Homeland Security Division with the goal of identifying threats and preventing attacks before they occur.
In addition to increased law enforcement presence, Texans are encouraged to use the iWatchTexas Community Reporting System for reporting suspicious activities or behaviors near schools, places of worship, or within their communities that may suggest criminal or terroristic threats. Reports can be made via a mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx.org, or by calling 1-844-643-2251. According to officials, submitting a report usually takes less than five minutes and all submissions are confidential; providing contact information is optional but allows for follow-up if needed.
The iWatchTexas app is free for both iPhone and Android devices. Authorities urge Texans to download it as a precautionary measure.
Officials remind residents that iWatchTexas is not intended for emergencies; those situations should be reported directly by calling 9-1-1.
