SAPD Cooperation with Federal Agencies

Mr. Zamora, a former city and state employee, pleaded for San Antonio to cease all cooperation between SAPD and ICE, citing reports of ICE agents disregarding laws and the Fourth Amendment. He argued that trained and accountable officers should not be asked to protect the untrained and negligent.

Ms. Herrera spoke about the suffering, fear, and misery experienced by immigrant communities due to immigration abuses. She emphasized that immigration is not a threat and that unchecked power creates chaos, urging the police not to function as immigration enforcement and highlighting the contributions of workers.

Mr. Payne, a student, asked if local and federal authorities will respect the civil rights of immigrants, if ICE's recent conduct has been constitutional, and if the city recognizes ICE's absolute immunity or unjust conduct in other states. He interpreted the council's silence as agreement.

Mr. Pena argued for no cooperation with ICE, stating that many federal agents are untrained and lack proper mental health screenings. He urged the mayor to use their knowledge to create barriers of information and prevent cooperation, as intelligence and data are still being collected.

Mr. Nurnberg expressed concern about the erosion of trust and the replacement of trust with fear, particularly regarding immigrants. He argued that immigration is a strength, not a threat, and that unchecked power and unconstitutional actions by federal agencies create chaos, not safety.

Commissioner Moody emphasized public safety and respect for law enforcement, stating that undermining law enforcement or micromanaging it risks public safety. He stressed that coordination between local and federal law enforcement is essential and called for zero tolerance for attacks on those who serve.