Denton authorities confer with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, concluding the discussion without sealing any deals for enforcement actions
Denton, Texas — Last week, a meeting took place between Denton city leaders and representatives from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The gathering was based on an executive order issued by President Donald Trump in January, which requires ICE to partner with local and state law enforcement, subject to the determination by the secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
The meeting, attended by Denton's mayor, city manager, and police chief, was described as informational by Dustin Sternbeck, the city's chief communications officer. However, the purpose of the meeting was to possibly give Denton police immigration enforcement authority under the 287(g) program.
The 287(g) program is described as protecting the U.S. by arresting and removing immigrants who allegedly undermine community safety and immigration laws. Despite the meeting, the city has not agreed to work with or provide resources to ICE.
Council member Vicki Byrd, a retired police officer and educator, expressed her opposition to the upcoming ICE meeting in an Aug. 13 Facebook post. She stated, "FYI ... So this is a NO for me. Period." Council member Brian Beck previously condemned any kind of collaboration between the city and ICE.
A large majority of communication Beck received from community members was in opposition of current ICE tactics and behavior and supportive of the precarious situation many immigrant families find themselves in.
Mayor Pro Tem Suzi Rumohr stated that if Hudspeth wished to propose anything from the meeting, he would need to bring it before the City Council for discussion and a decision. Denton Mayor Gerard Hudspeth has not responded to a request for comment by Wednesday evening.
The city's email stated that no additional action is necessary, indicating that no formal decision by the Denton City Council regarding participation in the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g) program has been made. This discussion is still in preliminary stages as reported recently.
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