Major U.S. City Led by GOP Mayor Appoints New Police Chief Rejecting Sanctuary Policies to ‘Do What’s Right’

Nearly a month into his tenure as Dallas' new police chief, Daniel Comeaux is making clear that his leadership will mark a departure from previous policies when it comes to immigration enforcement in the city. Comeaux has signaled a willingness to work with federal agencies on immigration-related operations, as long as those efforts are lawful and conducted appropriately. "We're gonna do what's right. We're always gonna be there to help our federal partners," Comeaux stated, emphasizing the department's readiness to support federal operations when necessary.

This approach appears to bring Dallas more closely in line with Texas' widespread sanctuary policies and the state's ongoing crackdowns against illegal immigration. Over the past several years, Texas has led the national conversation on border security, deploying authorities to the state’s southern border and orchestrating high-profile efforts such as bussing migrants to major Democrat-led cities in a bid to highlight the federal government’s handling of the crisis. Mayor Eric Johnson has voiced support for these strategies, expressing approval for efforts to remove undocumented migrants accused of violent crimes.

Johnson made national headlines in 2023 by switching from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party, arguing that “American cities need Republicans.” Since taking office in 2019, Johnson’s administration has focused intently on public safety, and Dallas has reported a notable decrease in crime during his tenure. The mayor’s office credits this reduction to a “strong police chief,” budgets that prioritize safety, and community engagement on crime issues. Johnson stresses that public safety remains his top priority and supports cooperation with federal law enforcement, particularly in cases involving violent offenders who are in the country illegally.

The new chief’s approach stands in contrast to that of former Interim Chief Michael Igo, who previously maintained that the Dallas Police Department would not participate in efforts to detain or report undocumented residents simply for seeking help or services. Igo assured the community that DPD would not assist with federal raids in sensitive locations such as churches, schools, or hospitals, though he acknowledged that undocumented individuals with outstanding warrants could face deportation.

Comeaux, however, positions himself as a law-and-order leader intent on partnering with federal agencies when appropriate, but without launching city-led immigration investigations or initiatives. "If we come in contact with anyone that doesn't have status, we will call the proper federal agency and let them handle it," he clarified. "We're not initiating any investigations. We're not initiating any programs. So everyone should feel free to go with their business as normal."

With decades of experience in federal law enforcement, most recently as the special agent in charge of the DEA’s Houston office, Comeaux brings a strong focus on targeting felons and repeat violent offenders. He delivered a pointed warning to those with felony warrants: "Anyone that has a felony warrant, at any moment, know that we could be the ones knocking at your door... We'll keep everybody safe here in Dallas."

Comeaux also highlighted Dallas’ extensive camera system as an advantage in monitoring and reducing crime. "One great thing about Dallas is we have so many camera systems in place... if you commit crimes in Dallas, it's very likely that we're seeing you, we're watching you, and we're coming to get you," he declared. He issued a clear message to would-be lawbreakers, stating, "Pick another city. Don't come to Dallas, you're not welcome."

Reflecting on his career, Comeaux shared personal motivations for returning to city policing after years in federal service. Inspired by early experiences helping vulnerable residents as a young officer, he expressed a desire to make a positive impact on a large scale. "I always knew I wanted to circle back to local law enforcement, and I wanted it to be in a city that can really be influential throughout the entire United States, and Dallas was one of those."

As Dallas continues to navigate complex questions around immigration enforcement and public safety under Comeaux’s leadership, the city's policies will remain closely watched both by its residents and by cities nationwide gauging how to balance the twin priorities of supporting community trust and upholding federal law.