The Dallas Police Department is reassuring residents that it will not enforce federal immigration laws, a stance that has sparked debate over law and order priorities.
During community meetings, Interim Chief Michael Igo stated that his Department will not assist federal agencies in detaining individuals solely based on their immigration status.
“The Dallas Police Department has not been asked by either state or federal law enforcement to participate in any immigration enforcement efforts. However, the Department has assisted and will continue to assist any agency in the arrest of a person wanted for a criminal offense, regardless of their immigration status,” Igo said, according to Fox News.
“The Department’s General Order regarding immigration remains in effect. In accordance with this regulation, Dallas officers will not, and I quote from our General Order, ‘stop or contact any person for the sole purpose of determining immigration status’ and ‘are permitted, but not required, to ask about the immigration status only of those persons who are lawfully detained or arrested.’ This General Order has been in effect since October of 2017.”
As highlighted by Fox News, this position raises concerns about whether local law enforcement is doing enough to support federal immigration efforts, especially as cities nationwide struggle with crime and illegal immigration.
While Chief Igo insists that public safety is the Department’s main focus, critics argue that refusing to cooperate with federal agencies could weaken overall law enforcement efforts and undermine border security.
The Department’s stance reflects a growing trend in major cities where local police are distancing themselves from federal immigration authorities. Some see this as a necessary step to build trust with immigrant communities, while others contend it creates a sanctuary-like atmosphere that could encourage more illegal immigration.