Gov. Abbott directs Texas DPS to surge anti-terrorism task force resources following New Orleans attack

HOUSTON – Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to surge Texas Anti-Terrorism Task Force resources to aggressively combat radical jihadist terrorism.

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This decision follows a tragic terrorist attack in New Orleans, allegedly carried out by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a Houston resident reportedly inspired by ISIS, which resulted in the loss of 14 lives. The directive underscores the Governor’s commitment to preventing future acts of terror and ensuring the safety of Texans.

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“Terrorism has no place in Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “Law enforcement at all levels must aggressively collaborate to eliminate radicalization that can lead to terrorist attacks.”

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Below are the key actions outlined:

Prevention Measures

• DPS will partner with FBI Field Offices to amplify Joint Terrorism Task Force operations across Texas.
• The number of intelligence analysts investigating terrorism and mass attack threats will grow, with a focus on providing support to local jurisdictions.
• DPS will coordinate with federal agencies to identify, locate, and assess threats from individuals on the terrorist watch list who have entered the U.S. illegally.
• Through the Bomb-Making Materials Awareness Program (BMAP), DPS will enhance information sharing between private sector entities and law enforcement to monitor suspicious material purchases.
• DPS will collaborate with local law enforcement, mental health professionals, and other stakeholders to implement the Texas Behavioral Threat Assessment Intervention and Prevention Program Strategy.
• Texans will receive education and training on terrorism prevention and targeted violence through DPS-led initiatives.

Protection and Mitigation Efforts

• DPS will assist local law enforcement in securing large events and mass gatherings, offering services such as vulnerability assessments, threat detection technology, and on-ground security personnel.
• DPS will aid local communities in planning and conducting workshops to prepare for mass casualty incidents, enhancing their response capabilities.
• The state will conduct workshops with private sector stakeholders to address potential attacks on critical infrastructure, emphasizing detection, deterrence, and response.
• Additional training and certification opportunities will be provided to expand intelligence sharing and coordination with private sector partners.
• DPS will evaluate vulnerabilities in the Capitol Complex, focusing on vehicle ramming and other attack methods, and will recommend security enhancements to the Governor’s Office.