Houston Council Divided on HPD-ICE Cooperation

A recent confirmation by Mayor John Whitmire regarding the Houston Police Department’s (HPD) cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has ignited a passionate debate within the city council and across Houston communities. While the Mayor insists HPD is simply following state law, many council members and residents express deep concerns about trust, safety, and human dignity.

Understanding HPD’s Role and the Mayor’s Stance

Mayor Whitmire reiterated that HPD officers, when identifying an active warrant during a stop or call, are legally required to notify the issuing agency, including ICE. He clarifies that HPD does not proactively inquire about immigration status or actively seek deportations, emphasizing that these procedures have been in place under previous administrations and are consistent with actions by the Harris County Sheriff’s Department. Whitmire dismisses criticisms as “rhetoric” and “politicizing an emotional issue,” stating HPD acts professionally and is not “working with ICE.”

Council Members Raise Alarms

The Mayor’s comments sparked swift backlash from several city council members. Councilman Mario Castillo, whose district includes immigrant communities, initially threatened to withhold HPD overtime funds, seeking “transparency, clarity, and public trust.” While he later walked back the immediate threat after receiving clarification, he stressed the anxiety caused by headlines suggesting HPD-ICE collaboration. Council Member Abbie Kamin denounced “disgusting” tactics, alleging warrantless searches, racial profiling, and inhumane conditions, while Councilman Joaquin Martinez shared a personal story of his neighbor’s deportation, calling ICE’s actions “disgusting.”

The Legal Landscape: Senate Bill 4

City Attorney Arturo Michel warned that Houston officials could face civil and criminal liability if they attempt to cease cooperation with ICE, citing state law. Councilman Julian Ramirez explained that Senate Bill 4 (SB 4), enacted in 2017, prohibits “sanctuary cities” and severely limits municipalities from enacting policies protecting immigrants from ICE. He highlighted the potential loss of hundreds of millions in federal funding for critical areas like disaster relief if the city doesn’t comply. Ramirez stated that while individual council members can offer input, the city’s hands are largely tied by state law and federal authority.

Community Impact and Calls for Change

Residents like Adriana Tellez spoke at a city council meeting, testifying that ICE operations extend beyond individuals with criminal records, citing instances of parents without warrants being apprehended in front of their children. This sentiment is echoed by many who feel their community is “under assault.” While a July Texas Southern University survey indicated high support for deporting undocumented felons, council members emphasize that the current debate is not about violent criminals, but about due process and protecting all residents.

Alejandra Salinas, a candidate for At-Large Place 4 City Council, argues that Houston officials should explore all options, including passing local ordinances or pursuing litigation against state and federal governments, to protect communities. State Rep. Christina Morales (D-Houston) has also called for transparency and accountability, condemning ICE practices and advocating for the safety, dignity, and trust of immigrant families.

Differing Perspectives on HPD-ICE Dynamics

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Mayor Whitmire’s official stance on HPD’s interaction with ICE?
  Mayor Whitmire states HPD follows state law, notifying agencies of active warrants, including ICE, but does not proactively inquire about immigration status or actively seek to deport people.
• Why are some Houston City Council members critical of HPD-ICE cooperation?
  Council members express concern about rising fear in immigrant communities, potential racial profiling, the erosion of public trust in local law enforcement, and the inhumane impact of ICE tactics on families, regardless of legal mandates.
• What is Senate Bill 4 (SB 4) and how does it affect Houston?
  SB 4 is a Texas state law, signed in 2017, that prohibits “sanctuary cities” and mandates local law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. It limits what Houston can do to create policies that protect undocumented immigrants.
• Does HPD actively drive around looking for undocumented immigrants to report to ICE?
  No, according to Houston Police Officers Union president Doug Griffith and Mayor Whitmire. HPD focuses on criminal activity and only contacts agencies for active warrants found during routine background checks, not active immigration enforcement.
• What are the potential consequences if Houston officials chose not to cooperate with ICE?
  City Attorney Arturo Michel indicates potential civil and criminal liability for officials, and Councilman Julian Ramirez warns of the possible loss of hundreds of millions in federal funding for city services.

As the conversation continues to evolve, Houstonians are urged to stay informed and engage with their elected officials, understanding that while local hands are tied by state and federal laws, collective voices can still advocate for compassion and clarity within complex immigration policies.

Houston Council Split Over Police ICE Role