Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to strengthen security measures around religious spaces in response to an increase in violent incidents targeting faith communities across the United States. The initiative, carried out with cooperation from local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, will focus on enhancing 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 with the goal of identifying threats and preventing attacks before they occur.
In addition to these efforts, Texans are encouraged to use the iWatchTexas Community Reporting System. This system allows individuals to report suspicious activities or behaviors near schools, religious institutions, or within their communities that could signal criminal or terroristic threats. Reports can be made through a mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx.org, or by calling 1-844-643-2251. Each submission is reviewed by law enforcement analysts and remains confidential unless contact information is provided for follow-up.
The iWatchTexas app is available for free on both iPhone and Android devices. Officials urge residents to download the app promptly. However, they note that emergencies should still be reported directly by calling 9-1-1.
