10/27/2025
Comanche County Sheriff's Office Clarifies Participation in 287(g) Program Under Texas Senate Bill 8
Comanche County, TX — In response to recent media coverage, the Comanche County Sheriff's Office wishes to provide clarity regarding its participation in the federally authorized 287(g) program under Texas Senate Bill 8. This legislation, signed into law in 2025, mandates that all Texas sheriffs operating county jails must request and enter into a 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Noncompliance may result in legal action by the Texas Attorney General beginning December 1, 2026. The Comanche County Sheriff's Office will operate under the Warrant Service Officer (WSO) model, which is strictly limited to actions within the jail facility. This model ensures that only individuals lawfully arrested for criminal offenses and who meet specific Department of Homeland Security criteria are subject to ICE detainers—and only after local charges are fully adjudicated.
Although our formal agreement was finalized this past week, this process has been in place since January 2025, with our office working closely with prosecutors and courts to ensure timely and lawful case resolution
Additionally, the Comanche County Sheriff's Office affirms its unwavering commitment to ethical law enforcement practices. In accordance with Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 2B, racial profiling is strictly prohibited. Our office does not participate in, nor condone, any law enforcement action based on race, ethnicity, or national origin. All enforcement decisions are made based on lawful behavior and credible information, not personal characteristics. We remain fully compliant with state law and dedicated to protecting the constitutional rights of every individual in our community.
It is also important to note that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations within Comanche County are conducted independently and do not require prior approval, coordination, or notification to the Comanche County Sheriff's Office. ICE, as a federal agency, retains full authority to operate within any jurisdiction in the United States, including conducting enforcement actions, investigations, and detainer placements. While our office remains committed to lawful cooperation under the Warrant Service Officer model of the 287(g) program, we do not oversee or authorize ICE’s external operations. The Comanche County Sheriff's Office will continue to uphold its responsibilities within the scope of state and federal law, while ensuring that our local enforcement efforts remain focused, ethical, and constitutionally sound.
We understand that recent media reports may have led to questions or confusion regarding the scope and nature of this program. Our intent is to provide further explanation and transparency so that the public has a clear understanding of our role, responsibilities, and limitations. The Sheriff's Office remains committed to lawful compliance, responsible fiscal stewardship, and open communication, and we welcome continued dialogue with media partners and community members alike.
End of Release
Chris Pounds
Sheriff
Comanche County Texas