Texas Governor Abbott issues warning over immigrant detentions

Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Wednesday threatened to withhold state grant money to Dallas County if the Democratic sheriff there does not detain undocumented immigrants as requested by federal authorities.

 

Analysts said the warning that extended to sheriffs across the state was mostly aimed at placating Republicans, many of whom want a special legislative session to crack down on cities they see as offering sanctuary to immigrants.

 

“He’s throwing them a bone but not doing much,” said Southern Methodist University political science professor Cal Jillson.

 

Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez has said her office is abiding by federal guidelines.

 

In October, Abbott warned Valdez that he will crack down on local officials who do not report undocumented immigrants to federal authorities.

 

So far this year, Abbott’s office said it has issued over $4 million in funding to sheriffs, with $78,000 in grants to Dallas County.

 

The governor’s Criminal Justice Division provide counties with funding for drug courts, juvenile justice programs, body cameras and a crime victim compensation program.

 

“As governor, I simply will not allow CJD grant funding administered by this office to support law enforcement agencies that refuse to cooperate with a federal law enforcement program that is intended to keep dangerous criminals off Texas streets,” Abbott wrote.

 

Read More: Texas Governor Abbott issues warning over immigrant detentions | Reuters