During a Nov. 9 Lubbock County commissioners meeting, Constable Precincts 1, 2 and 4 voted on separate memoranda of agreement that would allow local officers to work under ICE’s 287(g) Task Force Model. The agreements promise up to $100,000 for a vehicle after an office’s first immigration arrest and $15,000 each quarter for technology and equipment, funding that would run through the end of 2028.
Constable’s funding proposal
Constable Barnes told Lubbock Lights the initial vehicle payment is triggered by the first immigration arrest, “It’s $100,000 for the first arrest.” He added that each participating officer would generate $7,500 for technology and $7,500 for equipment every quarter. Barnes said the program could help equip his office, which currently lacks body cameras, and cited an incoming deputy who has already participated in 287(g) at another agency.
Commissioner concerns
Commissioner Dalby expressed skepticism, stating he lacks assurance that the county will actually receive the promised funds or avoid additional expenses. “I am not willing to gamble the taxpayer dollars on empty promises and no verification that the funds will be available and this won’t cost the county,” Dalby said.
Dalby also questioned the documentation supporting the funding expectations, noting there is “no guarantee that the county will be reimbursed for initial travel, training, credentialing, or expenses related to this agreement.” County Judge Curtis Parrish echoed the concern, asking where the agreement obligates the federal government to compensate the county.
Vote outcome
Commissioners Jason Corley, Jordan Rackler and Cary Shaw voted in favor of the agreements; Judge Parrish and Dalby voted against each, resulting in a 3‑2 split. The discussion highlighted that staffing and local transportation would remain county responsibilities regardless of any reimbursement.
Potential impact
If the federal assistance materializes, it could offset county purchases of vehicles and equipment. However, the actual budgetary benefit depends on the timing and amount of funds received versus any unreimbursed costs incurred.
Constable Barnes emphasized that participation does not require a quota of arrests; officers must simply be making public contacts in the course of their regular duties, such as serving civil papers and evictions. He noted that a 40‑hour training course will cover lawful procedures for handling immigration encounters during civil assignments.
Critics warned that adding immigration enforcement duties could strain constable offices already reporting heavy workloads and requests for additional deputies. Barnes countered that hourly deputies would not need overtime, and as a salaried constable he would absorb any extra time.
Precinct 3 opted out of the program, citing its already heavy docket. For questions or complaints about the agreements, residents can contact the individual constable precincts or ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility.
Original reporting: Lubbock Lights — read the source article.
