As first reported by The Dallas Express, Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into the City of Dallas regarding its police department’s non-compliance with state and federal immigration laws.
Look here to read the letter Paxton sent to City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert and Intermin Chief of Police Michael T. Igo.
The law is not optional. Local governments do not have the authority to disregard state and federal immigration laws.
The people of Texas expect law enforcement agencies to uphold public safety, not to implement sanctuary policies that put our communities at risk.
My office… https://t.co/osff68V1HW
— Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) March 13, 2025
Paxton addressed in his March 13 press release that this action follows a statement from Interim Police Chief Michael Igo, indicating that the Dallas Police Department will not assist federal agencies in detaining individuals based on immigration status. Paxton’s concern centers on potential violations of Texas law, which forbids localities from enacting sanctuary policies that hinder immigration enforcement.
The Attorney General’s Office has formally requested various records from the City of Dallas, including policies, training materials, and communication related to immigration law enforcement. Paxton emphasized that adherence to the law is mandatory, asserting that local governments cannot ignore state and federal immigration regulations. He warned that his office would take necessary legal measures to ensure compliance and hold accountable any local government that defies its legal duties.
Paxton’s full press release:
