Local authorities in Denton conferred with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), but no deals were struck concerning law enforcement matters.

Denton City Council Decides Against Participating in 287(g) Program

In a recent development, the Denton City Council has decided not to participate in the 287(g) program, a partnership between local law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Last week, a meeting was held between Denton's city leaders, including Mayor Gerard Hudspeth, City Manager Sara Hensley, and Police Chief Jessica Robledo, and representatives from ICE. The meeting, which was attended at the initiative of ICE, aimed to discuss the potential implementation of the 287(g) program in Denton.

However, the city has not agreed to work with or provide resources to ICE, according to Dustin Sternbeck, the city's chief communications officer. He described the meeting as informational.

Council member Brian Beck, a vocal critic of any collaboration between the city and ICE, expressed support for the decision. Beck has previously condemned such collaborations, citing concerns over the impact on immigrant families. He also mentioned that a large majority of communication received from community members was in opposition of current ICE tactics and behavior.

Council member Vicki Byrd, a retired police officer and educator, also expressed opposition to the potential implementation of the 287(g) program in Denton. Her stance on the ICE meeting was made public on her Aug. 13 Facebook post.

President Donald Trump issued an executive order in January requiring ICE to partner with local and state law enforcement, based on a determination by the secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. The 287(g) program, as described by ICE, is intended to protect the U.S. by arresting and removing aliens who are deemed to undermine the safety of communities and the integrity of U.S. immigration laws.

Mayor Gerard Hudspeth did not provide a comment regarding the meeting with ICE. Mayor Pro Tem Suzi Rumohr stated that any proposal resulting from the meeting would need to be presented to the City Council for discussion and a decision.

It is important to note that no additional action is necessary according to Sternbeck, indicating that the city has not made any decisions regarding collaboration with ICE based on the information available.

This decision by the Denton City Council comes at a time when many cities across the U.S. are grappling with the question of whether to cooperate with ICE and its policies. The 287(g) program, in particular, has been a subject of controversy due to concerns over its impact on immigrant communities and local law enforcement resources.

As the situation develops, we will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

Local authorities in Denton conferred with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), but no deals were struck concerning law enforcement matters.