Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson is calling for a public review of Police Chief Daniel Comeaux’s decision to reject a $25 million federal offer from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, urging a joint committee meeting to determine whether the city should reconsider joining the 287(g) immigration enforcement program.
Mayor seeks committee briefing
The Republican mayor’s request follows Comeaux’s disclosure to the Community Police Oversight Board that he personally declined ICE’s $25 million offer, citing concerns about bringing unwanted attention to Dallas.
The 287(g) program allows local law enforcement agencies to perform certain immigration duties under federal authority. Recent changes in Texas law now require county sheriff’s departments to participate in at least one of the program’s models.
Johnson says the decision should be made transparently, with public input and a thorough analysis of both financial implications and public safety impact.
Memo outlines mayor’s request
In a memorandum sent Friday to city committee chairs – Cara Mendelsohn (Public Safety) and Maxie Johnson (Government Efficiency) – Mayor Johnson asked for a joint meeting to be convened as soon as possible…