Recent headlines have brought national attention to a series of violent crimes committed by undocumented immigrants—cases that have devastated families and reignited fierce debate about border security and immigration enforcement. As policymakers wrestle with how to address these complex issues, residents of Texas’ 3rd Congressional District are asking: How serious is the threat, and what does it mean for us here at home?
High-Profile Cases Stir Emotions
Tragic deaths like those of Laken Riley in Georgia, Camilla Williams in Cobb County, and Jocelyn Nungaray in Houston have brought raw emotion to the national conversation. In each case, the suspects were undocumented immigrants—some with prior deportation orders, criminal records, or known ties to criminal networks.
The stories are heartbreaking. And for many Americans, including those in North Texas, they represent a sense of injustice and frustration with a system that allowed these crimes to happen.
The Data Behind the Headlines
While individual tragedies generate headlines and public outrage, broader data tells a more nuanced story. Multiple independent studies, including research from the Cato Institute and the National Academy of Sciences, have found that undocumented immigrants are statistically less likely to commit crimes, including violent crimes, than native-born citizens.
In Texas, state-level data from 2013 to 2022 confirms that the homicide conviction rate for undocumented immigrants was lower than that of native-born Americans. However, that does not diminish the importance of addressing serious cases when they do occur—particularly those involving individuals who should have been detained or deported.
Impact on the 3rd Congressional District
Texas’ 3rd Congressional District, which includes parts of Collin and Hunt counties, is not immune to concerns over immigration and public safety. The district has a growing and diverse population, a strong law enforcement presence, and a large community of legal immigrants and mixed-status families.
While no high-profile violent crimes involving undocumented immigrants have occurred in the district in recent years, residents still feel the ripple effects of national policy decisions:
- Local law enforcement partners with federal agencies to enforce immigration-related warrants or detainers.
- The economic and housing impact of immigration, both legal and undocumented, influences city budgets and planning.
- Constituents voice strong opinions at town halls and in public forums, with many calling for increased border security, better enforcement, and faster deportation of violent offenders.
Congressman Keith Self (TX-03) has taken a vocal stance on immigration enforcement, supporting measures to end “catch and release,” expand deportations, and defund sanctuary policies. He also recently introduced legislation to rename the Greenville post office in honor of a fallen police officer, reinforcing his commitment to public safety.
A Call for Balance
For many in the 3rd District, the conversation isn’t just about crime—it’s about trust in government systems. It’s possible to both empathize with the victims of these horrific crimes and recognize that most undocumented immigrants are not criminals, but rather workers, parents, and students seeking opportunity.
The real challenge lies in building a system that:
- Enforces immigration laws consistently
- Prioritizes public safety without racial or legal profiling
- Focuses resources on those who pose genuine threats
Where Do We Go from Here?
North Texans are proud of their communities, law enforcement, and diverse population. As immigration continues to shape the political and cultural landscape, the 3rd District finds itself at the crossroads of national policy and local experience.
