Overview
- Chief Todd Bettison said an officer on Dec. 16 and a sergeant on Feb. 9 contacted Border Patrol during traffic stops, and federal agents detained the individuals.
- Department policy forbids contacting CBP or ICE for translation or immigration-status inquiries, and officers are directed to use a certified translation service.
- Both employees are suspended with pay, and Bettison has asked the Board of Police Commissioners to authorize suspension without pay.
- Any termination would require a command hearing that can take up to 21 days, and the board plans a closed-door discussion on Thursday.
- Immigrant advocates report heightened fear in the community, neighboring Taylor police describe routine cooperation with federal agencies, and officials including Rep. Rashida Tlaib voiced support for discipline.