Rep. Johnson demands DPD explain any cooperation with ICE

Congresswoman Julie Johnson (TX-32) sent a letter to Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux demanding transparency on the department’s cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“As a member of Congress with oversight authority of federal immigration enforcement, I take seriously my duty to ensure these partnerships uphold the rule of law, constitutional protections and community safety,” Johnson wrote. “Recent public statements, community forums, and media reports have raised questions about the Dallas Police Department’s position on ICE detention practices and the 287(g) program. These instances raise critical civil rights concerns and can damage trust between immigrant communities and local police, particularly when reports surface of individuals being detained without clear identification or justification.”

According to the Department of Homeland Security, the 287(g) program is an initiative that allows state and local law enforcement agencies to partner with ICE to enforce federal immigration laws within their jurisdictions.

Johnson wrote: I am requesting a detailed explanation of the Dallas Police Department’s current policy regarding cooperation with ICE, including:

1. Has your department entered into any Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) or informal agreements with ICE or other DHS agencies?
2. What is the criteria used to determine when and how DPD engages with ICE or assists in immigration enforcement?
3. Does your department collect or share immigration status information during routine policing?
4. What is the department’s process for ensuring transparency and accountability in federal partnerships?
5. Are DPD officers ever stationed or detailed to work alongside ICE officers, and if so, in what capacity?
6. Has your department received funding, equipment or other resources from ICE or DHS this year? If so, for what purposes?

Johnson requested a response by next Thursday.

— David Taffet