When survivors dial 911, they hope law enforcement will stop the immediate danger, not treat them as criminals. That’s why the story “She called 911 to report domestic abuse. Then Houston police called ICE on her” is so concerning.
Anyone experiencing abuse should be able to turn to the police without fear or hesitation. State and local police’s growing collaboration with federal immigration officials is quickly changing how crime victims feel about seeking help. The Alliance for Immigrant Survivors just released a national survey of service providers, and the statistics are alarming. Fifty percent of those polled know crime victims who dropped civil or criminal cases against their abusers, because they feared pursuing protection or justice could lead to their deportation. The woman’s experience highlighted in the Houston Chronicle story is just one example of why immigrant survivors feel afraid to contact the police to report domestic violence and sexual assault.
As someone who works on behalf of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, I know this woman’s experience is not unique — it reflects a real and widespread fear. Immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility; local law enforcement must focus on protecting survivors and ensuring community safety. When those roles blur, survivors stay silent and communities suffer. The Houston Police Department must put safety first. Nothing is more urgent.
Katharina Dechert
Houston Policy and Advocacy Manager, Tahirih Justice Center
