Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to increase security measures at places of worship in response to a rise in violent attacks against religious communities across the United States. The directive aims to enhance 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 include Texas Highway Patrol troopers, Criminal Investigations Division special agents, and Texas Rangers. These personnel will be supported by DPS’ Homeland Security Division, which is tasked with 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, religious sites, or within their communities that could indicate 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 report is reviewed by law enforcement analysts and remains confidential unless contact information is provided for follow-up.

The iWatchTexas app is available free for both iPhone and Android devices. However, officials emphasize that emergencies should still be reported directly by calling 9-1-1.