Dallas police chief refuses to release ICE assistance data

Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux has declined to disclose monthly data on how often Dallas police officers aid federal immigration agents, telling a city oversight board that releasing this information could jeopardize officer safety.

The Community Police Oversight Board has officially submitted a memo to the Dallas Police Department, requesting monthly reports detailing interactions with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The board inquired about the frequency of officer assistance to ICE, the reasons behind DPD's involvement, and the results of those interactions.

During a Tuesday night meeting, Comeaux spoke to the board and declined to share the reports, emphasizing officer safety as his top priority. He expressed that disclosing information regarding immigration-related encounters amidst a period of intensified national protests against ICE might render Dallas officers vulnerable to violence or demonstrations.

“At this moment, ensuring the safety of every officer in the city is my top priority,” Comeaux stated. “Our commitment is to ensure the safety of every individual in the city.”

Comeaux emphasized that DPD does not engage in immigration enforcement or spearhead federal investigations. He indicated that officers could provide support to federal agencies upon request, typically by setting up a safety perimeter during operations.

“I want to clarify that we are not immigration officers, and our responsibilities do not involve immigration matters,” Comeaux informed the board members.

The demand for information comes in light of social media footage depicting Dallas officers in attendance during federal immigration operations. The images have sparked a public discussion regarding the department's involvement in federal operations, especially following Comeaux's decision to turn down a $25 million federal proposal last year to participate in the 287(g) program. The proposed program aimed to empower local officers with the authority to officially enforce federal immigration laws.

Disappointment was voiced by several board members regarding the chief’s refusal, with arguments highlighting that transparency is essential for sustaining public trust. Their request was clearly stated as seeking anonymized, monthly summaries instead of real-time operational details.

Board members emphasized the need for transparency regarding the frequency with which local police resources are utilized to assist federal immigration initiatives. This is particularly important in light of ongoing apprehensions within immigrant communities regarding the collaboration between local law enforcement and ICE.

The oversight board has set a deadline of February 2 for the department to submit a formal written response to its request. Members indicated they are contemplating escalating the matter to the Dallas City Council should the department persist in withholding the information.

Comeaux did not specify if the department would revisit its stance, emphasizing that the safety of officers is his foremost concern amid ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement across the country.