In a pivotal meeting of the Dallas Community Police Oversight Board, members voiced urgent concerns regarding the Dallas Police Department's (DPD) collaboration with federal agencies and the implications for community trust and safety. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of responsibility as board members gathered to address the intersection of law enforcement practices and civil liberties.

One board member articulated a strong stance against illegal actions by the DPD, emphasizing the need for the department to intervene if federal partners engage in unlawful activities. "I want DPD to enforce the law, just like Chief Como says that he is going to," they asserted, highlighting a commitment to uphold legal standards regardless of federal directives. This call for accountability reflects a broader concern about the potential for abuse of power by federal authorities, particularly in light of recent events involving plainclothes agents.

The discussion also turned to the sensitive issue of surveillance, with a clear message against monitoring protests and using facial recognition technology on demonstrators. The board member expressed a desire to protect citizens from invasive practices that could lead to distrust in law enforcement. "I don’t want surveillance of protesters," they stated, underscoring the importance of maintaining civil liberties during times of social unrest.

Further, the board member urged Chief Como to outline actionable steps that would foster trust within the community, particularly among residents with immigration concerns. They proposed a policy that would prevent officers from inquiring about immigration status during routine investigations, arguing that such measures would encourage individuals to report crimes without fear of deportation. "Making it a policy that we're not gonna ask people about their immigration status would send a message to the people of Dallas that they can trust our police department," they explained.

The conversation also touched on alternatives to traditional arrest procedures, such as cite and release, which could minimize unnecessary interactions with immigration enforcement. This approach aims to reassure vulnerable populations that the DPD's focus is on community safety rather than immigration enforcement.

As the meeting progressed, other board members echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for a police force that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all Dallas residents. The overarching theme was clear: fostering trust between the community and law enforcement is essential for a peaceful and safe Dallas.

In conclusion, the discussions at the meeting highlighted a critical juncture for the DPD as it navigates its relationship with federal agencies while striving to maintain public trust. The board's commitment to advocating for policies that protect civil liberties and promote community safety signals a proactive approach to policing in Dallas, setting the stage for future dialogues on these pressing issues.