FORT WORTH — The Fort Worth City Council unanimously approved a $1.116 million settlement with Police Captain Paula Conaway on June 9, 2026. This approval followed a lawsuit filed by Conaway against the city in August 2024, which alleged retaliation and harassment.
Court filings from August 2024 in Tarrant County district court accused the city of violating the Whistleblower Act and engaging in gender-based discrimination under the Texas Labor Code. The lawsuit claimed that retaliation against Conaway began in March 2021 after she issued a written reprimand to an officer accused of repeatedly punching an unresisting driver.
Between February and June 2021, Conaway recommended an officer attend remedial training after reviewing incident reports that alleged questionable conduct. The lawsuit further stated that Conaway ordered the officer to desk duty until he completed remedial coursework. Former Police Chief Neil Noakes subsequently directed Conaway's supervisor to investigate allegations that Conaway was targeting officers in the South Division; the investigation determined these allegations were false.
In July 2023, Noakes demoted Conaway from deputy chief. The lawsuit states that Noakes cited concerns that officers feared working for Conaway due to potential targeting as the reason for the demotion. Public records from February 2026 show Conaway earns approximately $156,145 annually as a captain in the force analysis section, while deputy chief salaries in the department range from $198,000 to $210,000 annually.
City Attorney Leann Guzman issued a written statement regarding the settlement. "After thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the case, the City has determined that settling the lawsuit at this time represents the most effective and responsible use of public resources." She added, "The city continues to deny any liability or wrongdoing regarding the case."