As a resident of Cuero, Texas, I am deeply concerned about the Cuero City
Council’s December 8, 2025, decision to approve the 287(g) MOA (Memorandum
of Agreement) with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While
This federal program is legal, it carries significant risks for our community if it is
not paired with strict limits, oversight, and protections for the public.
The 287(g) program allows local law enforcement officers to collaborate with ICE
and enforce federal immigration laws. The MOA was presented to the Cuero City
Council, and it was described as a tool to target violent criminals. However, the
contract itself contains no language guaranteeing that limitation.
Without clear safeguards, this program could expose Cuero residents—including
American citizens—to civil rights violations, wrongful detentions, and
unnecessary harm. We do not have to look far to see the dangers. National news
continues to report incidents of misuse and overreach in communities
participating in 287(g).
rapidly these situations can spiral when safeguards are absent. Our officers must
remain focused on stopping those who pose real threats to public safety—not
diverting their authority toward turning civil immigration issues into criminal
enforcement actions that put innocent people at risk
It is important to remember that being in the country without proper
documentation is a civil violation, not a criminal offense. Treating civil matters
as criminal ones opens the door to profiling, wrongful arrests, and the erosion of
trust between law enforcement and the community.
Organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) have
repeatedly raised concerns about the misuse of 287(g) across the United States.
Studies—including research from the Migration Policy Institute—show that
jurisdictions with 287(g) agreements often see increased deportations that do
not align with federal priorities and, in some cases, have resulted in civil rights
abuses and community unrest.
For these reasons, the residents of Cuero and DeWitt County must urge the City
Council to reconsider this agreement or, at a minimum, adopt strong local
safeguards. These protections should include independent oversight,
transparent reporting, and clear limits that prevent misuse—especially against
vulnerable or marginalized groups.
Our community’s safety depends not only on enforcement but on trust,
transparency, and accountability. We must ensure that any partnership with
federal authorities strengthens our community rather than divides it.
I encourage my fellow residents to join me in calling for responsible action. By
signing this petition, you send a clear message to the Cuero City Council that we
value our rights, our safety, and the wellbeing of every member of our
community. Together, we can advocate for meaningful safeguards and build a
safer, more united future for all.
I want to sign the petition – P. Trevino