Dallas Oversight Board, Congresswoman Seek Clarity on Police Ties to Immigration Enforcement

The Dallas Community Police Oversight Board is calling on Police Chief Daniel Comeaux to attend its upcoming meeting to address inquiries regarding the department's collaboration with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

During a meeting on Tuesday evening, the board decided to invite Comeaux following the encouragement of approximately 40 community members who called for more decisive action. Residents urged the Dallas Police Department to ban voluntary cooperation with ICE without a judicial warrant, deliver quarterly public reports on interactions with ICE, promptly notify family members when someone is detained, and release a public statement confirming that the department does not work with federal immigration authorities.

“We can’t stop ICE from existing. What can we do? We can pass a strong city ordinance,” said community member Azael Alvarez. “This isn’t about politics. It’s about trust. No one should be afraid to call 911.”

Last week, the Dallas City Council briefing heard similar demands.

Rep. Julie Johnson, D-Dallas, is seeking clarification from Comeaux. In a correspondence addressed to the chief, Johnson sought clarification on six particular aspects concerning the department's involvement in immigration enforcement. She referenced findings indicating that the initiative has resulted in the apprehension and removal of individuals lacking criminal backgrounds, eroding confidence between immigrant populations and authorities.

“These situations highlight significant civil rights issues and have the potential to erode trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement, especially when there are reports of individuals being held without clear identification or justification,” Johnson wrote.

Johnson is inquiring about the nature of any agreements the Dallas police may have with ICE or other agencies under the Department of Homeland Security, the criteria that officers apply in their enforcement actions, whether immigration status is disclosed during standard policing procedures, and the accountability measures currently implemented. She inquired if the department has obtained any funding or resources from ICE or DHS in the current year. The congresswoman has established a deadline of August 21 for responses.

Residents have raised concerns about Dallas's involvement in a program that enables local law enforcement to assist in identifying and deporting undocumented immigrants.

Comeaux encountered backlash earlier this year after stating to Fox News that the department would “fully cooperate” with federal immigration authorities. Subsequently, he clarified that he was addressing individuals who had felony warrants. He emphasized that the department would only collaborate with federal partners when deemed "appropriate and legal."

Last week, a spokesperson from the Dallas Police Department shared that there have been no updates on Comeaux's position or the department's approach to immigration enforcement.

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