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Protecting and serving the City of West Tawakoni & the Lake Tawakoni community since incorporation — Hunt County, Texas
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Emergency
Life-threatening or in-progress emergency? Always dial 911 first.
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Submit a Tip
Report suspicious activity anonymously through our secure tip line.
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Crash Report
Buy or request an official Texas Peace Officer's Crash Report online via CrashDocs.
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Officer Portal
Password-protected login for department forms and internal announcements.
About the Department
Serving the Lake Tawakoni Community
The West Tawakoni Police Department provides law enforcement and emergency response for the City of West Tawakoni, incorporated in 1966 in Hunt County, Texas. In 2001, the Texas Legislature officially declared West Tawakoni the "Catfish Capital of Texas" — the city sits on the west side of Lake Tawakoni, a 225-mile-shoreline lake known for producing some of the biggest blue catfish in the South.
Our department serves a community of just over 2,300 residents, with a mission of keeping West Tawakoni a safe place to live, fish, and visit.
1966City Incorporated
2,382Population
Hunt CountyJurisdiction
Chief of Police
John Alderson
Chief Alderson leads the West Tawakoni Police Department, based at 1533 E Hwy 276. For general inquiries, contact the department at info@westtawakonipd.org or (903) 447-3605.
Our Mission
The mission of the West Tawakoni Police Department is to protect life and property, preserve public order, and enhance the quality of life within our city. We accomplish this through proactive policing, community engagement, and the consistent application of professional law enforcement practices.
A Message From Leadership
Message from the Chief
Welcome from Chief John Alderson
Welcome to the West Tawakoni Police Department website.
It is my honor to serve as Chief of Police for the City of West Tawakoni. Our department is committed to protecting the lives, property, and rights of all who live, work, and visit our community. We strive to provide professional law enforcement services through integrity, and respect for every individual we serve.
The West Tawakoni Police Department believes that strong partnerships between law enforcement and the community are essential to maintaining a safe and welcoming city. We work diligently to build trust through proactive policing, and meaningful engagement with our residents, businesses, and visitors.
Our officers are dedicated to providing responsive service while upholding the highest standards of professionalism. Whether responding to emergencies, addressing community concerns, or participating in local events, our goal is to serve with honor and compassion.
This website is designed to provide information about our department, available services, crime prevention resources, and ways to connect with us. I encourage you to explore the site and learn more about how we work together to keep West Tawakoni a safe and thriving community.
On behalf of the West Tawakoni Police Department, thank you for your continued support and partnership. We are proud to serve you.
Sincerely,
John Alderson
Chief of Police
West Tawakoni Police Department
“Committed to Service. Dedicated to Community. Focused on Safety.”
Stay Informed
News & Announcements
Public safety alerts, community events, and updates from the West Tawakoni Police Department.
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Online Services
Common Requests
Handle these requests online without a trip to the department.
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Crash Reports
Texas Peace Officer's Crash Reports are available online through CrashDocs.
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Vehicle Impound Search
Search for an impounded vehicle and view release requirements online.
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Criminal Trespass Warning
Under Texas Penal Code §30.05, a property owner or authorized agent can personally warn someone off the property — no officer has to be present. Use this form to document that warning; if the subject refuses to leave or returns, contact Hunt County Dispatch.
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Sex Offender Registration
Registration is available every third Wednesday of the month, 12:00–2:00 PM, at 1533 E Hwy 276.
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Extra Patrol / Vacation Watch Request
Heading out of town or want extra patrol presence at your residence? Submit a request online and officers will conduct periodic checks as staffing allows. Not for emergencies — call 911 or Hunt County Sheriff's Office Dispatch for anything urgent.
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Citizen Affidavit of Fact
Provide a sworn written statement regarding a criminal offense or other matter under investigation by WTPD.
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Non-Emergency Crime Report
Report a crime that is not currently in progress — such as theft, vandalism, fraud, or lost property. If it's in progress or an emergency, call 911.
Community Calendar
Events
Department-hosted events and community traditions we're proud to support each year.
National Night Out
An annual community-building event that brings neighbors and law enforcement together to strengthen relationships, promote safety, and celebrate the spirit of West Tawakoni. Usually held the first Tuesday in October.
Trunk-or-Treat
A safe, family-friendly Halloween event hosted at the City Park with decorated patrol units, candy stations, and community partners.
Christmas Parade of Lights
One of West Tawakoni's most cherished holiday traditions — families, local organizations, and businesses celebrate with illuminated floats and festive music. The department helps keep it safe and welcoming for all attendees.
Community Resources
Lake Safety & Crime Prevention
General safety guidance for residents and visitors enjoying Lake Tawakoni. For official Texas boating regulations, consult Texas Parks & Wildlife.
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Boating & Lake Safety
- Life jackets are required for all children under 13 on any vessel underway.
- Boating while intoxicated (BWI) carries the same penalties as DWI in Texas.
- Operate at no-wake speed within 50 ft of docks, marinas, and swimmers.
- File a float plan with a friend or family member before long trips.
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Fishing & Catfish Capital Etiquette
- A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers 17 and older.
- Respect posted limits — Lake Tawakoni is famous for trophy blue catfish.
- Report poaching or fish-limit violations to Texas Parks & Wildlife or WTPD.
- Keep bank-fishing areas clean; pack out all trash and tackle line.
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Crime Prevention
- Lock vehicles and lakeside sheds — most local thefts are crimes of opportunity.
- Sign up for a vacation/property watch when you're away from your lake house.
- Report suspicious activity promptly — don't assume someone else has called it in.
- Use the anonymous tip line above to report information without giving your name.
Get In Touch
Contact West Tawakoni PD
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Address1533 E Hwy 276, West Tawakoni, TX 75474
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Non-Emergency(903) 447-3605
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Fax(903) 447-4935
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EmergencyDial 911
Submit a Records Request
For traffic crash reports, use CrashDocs above. For incident reports or other open records requests, fill out the form below (or email info@westtawakonipd.org) and our records division will follow up.