Dallas police won’t join ICE deportation raids, interim chief tells immigrant meetings

The Dallas Police Department (DPD) has taken a proactive step to address the fears and concerns of immigrant communities in the city by hosting a series of outreach meetings. These meetings aim to reassure residents that the DPD will not participate in deportation raids or arrests carried out by federal immigration authorities, particularly under the Trump administration. The first meeting was held on Wednesday, with additional sessions planned through February 20, as announced on the DPD’s Facebook page. This initiative reflects the department’s commitment to building trust and ensuring the safety of all residents, regardless of their immigration status.

DPD Interim Chief Michael Igo played a key role in addressing the community’s concerns during the first meeting, held at Familia Bethel Internacional church in Dallas. Speaking to a predominantly Spanish-speaking audience, Igo emphasized that the DPD would not assist federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in detaining individuals based on their immigration status. He made it clear that the department’s primary focus is to protect and serve all members of the Dallas community, without discrimination. Igo also reassured attendees that calling 911 or being pulled over for traffic violations would not lead to deportation for undocumented individuals. “I need you guys to continue to call the police, to not be afraid to come out of your homes to go to work, to send our kids to school,” he urged, encouraging everyone to feel safe engaging with law enforcement.

Igo also addressed the importance of respecting sensitive locations such as churches, schools, and hospitals, where no arrests or raids would be conducted. However, he noted that individuals with outstanding warrants might still face deportation, as the DPD is obligated to enforce state and local laws. The interim chief’s remarks were part of a broader effort to counteract the fear and uncertainty caused by the Trump administration’s heightened deportation efforts. Igo has consistently conveyed this message, including a recent video posted on X (formerly Twitter), where he reiterated the DPD’s commitment to serving all residents equally, regardless of their immigration status.

The DPD’s stance stands in contrast to the actions of the Trump administration, which has intensified its crackdown on undocumented immigrants. Recently, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced new lawsuits against states accused of noncompliance with federal immigration laws, further escalating tensions. While Dallas is one of the largest U.S. cities with a Republican mayor, the DPD’s approach reflects a more inclusive and community-focused philosophy. This balancing act is particularly significant in a city like Dallas, where diversity and immigration play a critical role in shaping the local culture and economy.

In addition to its outreach efforts, the DPD has reported promising trends in public safety. According to recent data, violent crime in Dallas decreased by 8.2% in 2024, with a 26% reduction in homicides compared to the previous year. This decline represents 65 fewer murder victims and marks the lowest murder rate in the city since before the pandemic. These statistics suggest that the DPD’s community-focused strategies, including its outreach to immigrant populations, may be contributing to improved safety and cooperation between law enforcement and residents.

In conclusion, the Dallas Police Department’s series of outreach meetings and Interim Chief Michael Igo’s reassuring messages are vital steps in fostering trust within immigrant communities. By clearly stating its stance on non-cooperation with federal deportation efforts and emphasizing the importance of safety for all residents, the DPD is working to create a more inclusive and secure environment. These efforts not only address the immediate concerns of immigrants but also reflect a broader commitment to building a stronger, more united Dallas. As the city continues to navigate the complexities of immigration policy and public safety, the DPD’s approach serves as a model for balancing enforcement with compassion and understanding.