CBP Apprehend 219 Illegals, Seize $32,693,730 Million In Drugs On Texas Border, Ports

For all of us to understand if there is a real problem or just political bloviation concerning our southern border with drug smuggling, human trafficking of adults and children, illegal immigrant crossings and gang activity, we need the numbers and facts…

By, Corridor Staff
B
elow you will find new informatio
n reported drug, smuggling, human trafficking and illegal crossings that have occurred either on the Texas border and ports over the week of July 25 – July 31, 2018.

As you read below, you may come to understand the issues on the U.S. and Mexico border are not a simple problem to be fixed by the current border security policies out of D.C.

It has been recently published by many media outlets that the drug, smuggling, human trafficking and illegal crossings have been consistently dropping over the last couple of years.

U.S. citizens are given inconsistent information on illegal crossings and criminal activity that is happening on the Mexico and U.S. border.

For all of us to understand if there is a real problem or just political bloviation concerning our southern border with drug smuggling, human trafficking of adults and children, illegal immigrant crossings and gang activity, we need the numbers and facts…

Texas isn’t the only state that shares a border with Mexico. Therefore, as you read the weekly report below, remember this information is only what is occurring on the Texas-Mexico border and Texas ports.

We gathered the information below directly from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which is under the purview of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

As for the accuracy of the information we have provided to you, we can only decipher the information that is released to us. Therefore the number of incidents, arrests, types of narcotics, weight and street value is considered the minimum amount.

Below you can find the totals of illegal crossing arrests, including their nationality & drug seizures including pounds, type of drug and “street value” total. Additionally, below you will find links for the last three weeks of border stats.

All people apprehended by the Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks using biometrics to ensure their criminal histories are positively identified. To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, contact their website at http://www.cbp.gov. Or follow them on Twitter at @CBPRGV.

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting suspicious activity at 1-800-863-9382.

Read related border coverage:

 

 


NOTE: The totals below for arrests, apprehensions, seizures, drugs, etc. are ONLY what is reported by Customs & Border Protection. Corridor News is not responsible for what is NOT reported.

Week of Aug. 7 – Aug. 14, 2018

Texas Border Reported Arrests/Apprehensions

Texas Border Reported Arrests/Apprehensions from the following counties;

Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Ecuador, Brazil, Dominican Republic, India and United States Weekly Total: 219

Of those above there were…

19 U.S. Citizens (USC)
2 18th Street Gang Member(s)
1
Convicted Rapist
1
Sex Offender(s)
31 Rescue(s)
5+
Children/Unaccompanied Children


Texas Weekly Drug Total Seizures & Estimated Street Price

NOTE: The totals are an estimate. U.S. dollar and pounds used.

WIKILEAF
  • Marijuana

• 4,930.5 lbs.
$19,522,800 Million

  • Cocaine

• 60 lbs.
• $2,177,200 Million

  • Methamphetamine Liquid

• 282.94
• $10,267,120 Million

  • Methamphetamine

• 10.4
• $377,360 Million

  • Heroin

• 7
• $349,250

  • Drug Weight Total:
    5290.8 lbs.

 

  • Estimated Drug Street Value:
    $32,693,730 Million

 

  • Additional Confiscated/Seized Goods:
    • 1 Semi-Automatic Pistol
    • Six Rounds of Ammunition


CBP Officers at the Laredo Port of Entry Seize More Than $1.3 Million in Crystal Methamphetamine

Release Date: August 14, 2018

A CBP officer conducts inspections at primary at Juarez-Lincoln Bridge. Photo by CBP.

LAREDO, TEXAS – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers at the Laredo Port of Entry recently seized over $1.3 million in crystal methamphetamine in one enforcement action.

“CBP has numerous layers of enforcement and our officers will go above and beyond to keep these illicit drugs from entering our country and affecting our community,” said Port Director Albert Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. 

The seizure occurred on Saturday, August 11 at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge when a CBP officer referred a 2013 Nissan Altima driven by a 27-year-old female Mexican citizen from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico traveling with a 25-year-old male Mexican citizen for a secondary inspection.  CBP officers utilizing a non-intrusive imaging system along with the help of a canine team discovered narcotics hidden within the vehicle.

CBP officers discovered a total of 66.71 pounds of alleged crystal methamphetamine. The narcotics have an estimated street value of $1,334,223.

 CBP OFO seized the narcotics and the vehicle.  Both subjects were arrested and the cases were turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents for further investigation.

For more information about CBP, please click on the attached link.



Border Patrol Agents Foil Human Smuggling Attempt

Release Date: August 14, 2018

LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents from the Hebbronville Border Patrol Station arrested one United States citizen and six illegal aliens during a human smuggling attempt on a ranch near Hebbronville, Texas.

 On August 13, agents responded to a report of several subjects in the brush on a ranch and subsequently apprehended five illegal aliens. The group consisted of one United States Citizen (USC) and four illegal aliens from Guatemala. 

Moments later agents found two more illegal aliens, a Mexican National and a Honduran National.  The USC was identified as the alien smuggler and was placed under arrest and all illegal aliens were processed accordingly.  

Agents later discovered that the United States citizen had an extensive criminal record to include prior convictions of transporting illegal aliens. The case was referred to Homeland Security Investigations.

To report suspicious activity such as drug and/or alien smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free telephone number at 1-800-343-1994.



Del Rio Sector Border Patrol Agents Help Rescue Families Stranded by Flood Waters

Release Date: August 13, 2018

Emergency Responders Rescue 29 from Flooded Nueces River

Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) agents responded with a rescue boat. Photo by CBP.

UVALDE, Texas – Border Patrol agents along with personnel from Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, local law enforcement agencies, as well as several private citizens combined their efforts to save 29 individuals from flash flooding here, Sunday.

“Del Rio Sector agents are trained, equipped, and ready to respond in times of natural emergencies,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez. “Joint efforts between our local, state, federal partners enable us to respond quickly to conduct search and rescue operations and save lives.”

On the morning of Aug. 12, Uvalde Border Patrol Station received a call for assistance from the Uvalde County Sheriff’s Office stating that multiple people and vehicles were swept away by floodwaters near Chalk Bluff River Resort northwest of Uvalde.

An AMO helicopter arrived to find people stranded on treetops and vehicles. For over five hours, DPS and AMO helicopters hoisted  people from the Nueces River and air-lifted them to safety.  

Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) agents responded with a rescue boat and with the assistance from Uvalde Station agents recovered additional people, including a pregnant woman and several small children.  

At least two privately owned and operated helicopters were on scene assisting with the rescue operation.

Everyone who was pulled from the water was transported to the Uvalde Civic Center where a command center had been set up.

“The contributions of all first responders and good samaritans that risked their own safety to help others is commendable,” continued Del Rio Sector Chief Felix Chavez. “I am immensely proud of the hard work that brought about a successful conclusion to a volatile situation that potentially could have ended in tragedy.”

The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.



Three More Criminal Aliens arrested over the weekend in the Rio Grande Valley

Release Date: August 13, 2018

Photo by CBP.

EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents in the Rio Grande Valley apprehended three criminal aliens over the weekend.  

On Friday, Falfurrias agents arrested a Salvadoran man whose record checks revealed a previous arrest and conviction for rape in Butler County, Ohio.

That same day, McAllen agents encountered a Salvadoran man after he illegally entered the United States south of Mission, Texas. During a brief interview, the man admitted to being a member of the notoriously violent 18th Street gang. 

On Sunday, Falfurrias agents arrested a Salvadoran man in the vast brush lands of Brooks County as he attempted to circumvent the immigration checkpoint. During processing, record checks indicated the man is also a member of the 18th Street gang. 

All subjects will be processed accordingly.

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting suspicious activity at 800-863-9382. 

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.



Border Patrol seizes more than $1M in marijuana over the weekend in the Rio Grande Valley

Release Date: August 13, 2018

Photo by CBP.

EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents prevent two narcotic smuggling loads from entering our communities.

 On Saturday evening, agents working near Fronton, Texas, observed a Chevrolet Suburban traveling alongside the Rio Grande without its lights on.

Mobile units responded and located the Suburban abandoned near a river road. Agents searched the immediate area and witnessed several subjects jump into the Rio Grande, swimming back to Mexico.

Inside the abandoned Suburban, agents discovered 137 bundles of marijuana weighing over 1,300 pounds and worth an estimated $1M.

On Sunday, Weslaco agents observed several subjects crossing the Rio Grande with bundles on their backs, south of Donna, Texas. Agents observed the subjects return to Mexico empty-handed. An immediate search of the area resulted in the discovery of 6 bundles of marijuana weighing 278 pounds and worth an estimated $222K.

The marijuana was turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and report suspicious activity at 800-863-9382. 

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.



Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents Rescue 78 Illegal Aliens inside a Locked Refrigerated Tractor-Trailer

Release Date: August 11, 2018

Border Patrol agents rescued 78 illegal aliens within a refrigerated tractor trailer that had failed to stop for a secondary inspection at the Interstate 35 Border Patrol checkpoint. Photo by CBP.

LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents at the Border Patrol Checkpoint on Interstate Highway (IH) 35, north of Laredo, Texas on Aug. 11 encountered a tractor-trailer at the primary inspection lane.

The driver and passenger were questioned regarding their immigration status and referred to secondary after a Border Patrol canine alerted to the presence of concealed humans and/or narcotics.

Agents instructed the driver to go to secondary inspection, when it failed to stop and continued north on IH 35. Agents attempted a vehicle stop and the tractor trailer came to a stop near mile maker 30 on IH 35.

Border Patrol agents discovered 78 illegal aliens inside the locked refrigerated trailer.  The 78 illegal aliens were found in good health and identified as being from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Brazil, Ecuador, India and Dominican Republic. 

The driver and passenger, both United States Citizens, were arrested and the tractor-trailer was seized by Border Patrol.  Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is the lead investigative agency in this case.

“These criminal organizations continue to use tractor trailers and view these individuals as mere commodities without regard for their safety.  The blatant disregard for human life will not be tolerated. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to disrupt and dismantle these organizations and prosecute those responsible,” said Laredo Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens.

To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994.



Border Patrol Agents Rescue Illegal Aliens from Bee Attack near the Rio Grande

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Photo by CBP.

ROMA, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Rio Grande City station and Rio Grande Valley Sector’s (RGV) Special Operations Detachment rescued a family unit from a bee attack.

Yesterday afternoon, agents encountered a family unit from El Salvador as a large swarm of bees attacked them.

The mother, 13-year-old daughter and 10 year-old son had just been smuggled into the United States and immediately became overcome by bees. Responding agents utilized fire extinguishers to flush out the bees and extracted them to safety.

During the rescue efforts, an agent assigned to the RGV Mobile Response Team also sustained multiple bee stings.

A Border Patrol Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) provided immediate medical attention and requested Emergency Medical Services. The family and agent were transported to a local hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.



Border Patrol Seizes Over $1.3 Million Worth of Marijuana in the Rio Grande Valley

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Photo by CBP.

EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Sector interdicted over 1,600 pounds of marijuana in three separate narcotic smuggling attempts.

Yesterday, agents in Rio Grande City responded to illicit activity near the Rio Grande. As agents approached the area, they discovered an abandoned vehicle loaded with bundles of marijuana.

The agents observed numerous subjects on the Mexican side of the river, directly across from the seizure location. The marijuana weighed over 275 pounds worth an estimated $220,500.00.

Early this morning, Rio Grande City agents observed a Ford Expedition departing the Rio Grande near La Rosita, Texas.

Agents responded to the area and attempted to initiate a vehicle stop. The driver of the load vehicle failed to yield to the agents’ emergency equipment and eventually bailed out.

Agents apprehended the driver and seized nearly 470 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $375,000.00.

A few hours later, agents assigned to the McAllen station disrupted a marijuana smuggling attempt south of Mission, Texas. Agents tracked foot-sign of a group and discovered 13 bundles abandoned in the brush.

An Air and Marine Operations air asset observed 14 subjects abscond back to Mexico. The marijuana weighed approximately 890 pounds worth an estimated $712,000.00.

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and report suspicious activity at 800-863-9382. 

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.



Border Patrol Seizes nearly $1.9M worth of cocaine at Rio Grande Valley checkpoint

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Photo by CBP.

SARITA, Texas – Yesterday, agents working the Sarita Checkpoint referred a Ford dully to the secondary inspection area after a K-9 alerted. During the secondary inspection, agents discovered nearly 60 pounds of cocaine worth $1,893,760.00.

Agents arrested the United States citizen driver and referred the case for prosecution.

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and report suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.



CBP Officers Seize $159K in Heroin at the Laredo Port of Entry

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Packages containing seven pounds of heroin seized by CBP officers at Laredo Port of Entry. Photo by CBP.

LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers at the Laredo Port of Entry recently seized $159,000 in heroin hidden within a vehicle.

“I congratulate the CBP officers for their vigilance and dedication to the border security mission,” said (A) Port Director Eugene Crawford, Laredo Port of Entry. “Our CBP officers remain alert and have become experts on identifying the numerous smuggling trends utilized at our port of entry.”

The seizure occurred on Sunday, August 5 at the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge. A CBP officer referred a 1994 Ford Lightning driven by a 22-year-old male United States citizen for a secondary inspection. 

Upon a canine and physical inspection, CBP officers discovered three packages hidden within the vehicle.

CBP officers extracted the packages from the vehicle and discovered a total of seven pounds of alleged heroin. The heroin has a street value of $159,000.

CBP OFO seized the narcotics and the vehicle. The driver was arrested and the case was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents for further investigation.

For more information about CBP, please click this link.



Eight Illegal Aliens Apprehended after Truck Crashes through a Fence near Hebbronville, Texas

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Eight aliens were apprehended after fleeing from a vehicle that had crashed through a ranch gate on Texas Hwy. 359 near Hebbronville, TX. Photo by CBP.

LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents on Thursday, Aug. 9 encountered a Chevrolet pickup truck believed to be involved in alien smuggling activity traveling on Texas Highway 359 near Hebbronville, Texas. 

As the agents attempted to take a closer look, they observed the vehicle drive through a fence of a local ranch. 

The driver and several occupants exited the vehicle and ran into the nearby brush. 

Agents searched the area and subsequently apprehended eight illegal aliens hiding in the brush. 

The abandoned vehicle was seized by Laredo Sector Border Patrol and the eight illegal aliens were transported to the station for processing. 

All eight illegal aliens were found in good health and were identified as being from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras.

To report suspicious activity such as drug and/or alien smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free telephone number at 1-800-343-1994.



Tractor-trailer Smuggling Attempt Foiled by Rio Grande Valley Sector Border Patrol

Release Date: August 10, 2018

SARITA, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Kingsville Station disrupted a smuggling attempt at the Sarita Checkpoint. 

Yesterday, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Sarita Checkpoint referred a tractor-trailer, driven by a United States citizen, for a secondary inspection after a K-9 alerted to the trailer.

Agents unlocked the cargo area and discovered 15 illegal aliens inside. An unaccompanied juvenile was among the group.

Agents arrested the driver and offered medical assistance to the smuggled aliens. Border Patrol referred the case for prosecution.

Operation Big Rig is a call to action for the community to get involved and call 911 if they see or are aware of smuggling or suspicious activity, “They’re humans, not cargo.”

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.



Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents Seize 453 Pounds of Marijuana in Central Laredo

Release Date: August 10, 2018

LAREDO, Texas –Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents seized more than $362,000 in marijuana while on patrol.

On Aug. 9, agents observed a suspicious vehicle while patrolling in central Laredo. As agents approached the vehicle, the driver attempted to abscond from the area but was immediately apprehended. 

A search of the white Chevrolet Uplander resulted in the discovery of six bundles of marijuana, with a combined weight of 453 pounds and an estimated value of $362,912. The driver was determined to be a Mexican National. 

The vehicle was seized by Laredo Sector Border Patrol. The subject and narcotics were turned over to Homeland Security Investigations.

To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free at 1-800-343-1994.



CBP Officers at the Anzalduas International Bridge Seize Liquid Methamphetamine Valued at Over $2.3 Million

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Aerial view of Anzalduas International Bridge. Photo by CBP.

ANZALDUAS, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Anzalduas International Bridge seized alleged liquid methamphetamine valued at $2,324,530.

“This was a tremendous hard narcotic interception by our CBP officers; their dedication and commitment to the CBP mission is vital in removing these dangerous narcotics from the streets of our nation,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry.

The seizure occurred on Aug. 8 at the Anzalduas International Bridge after CBP officers referred a beige 2008 Dodge Ram to secondary for an enforcement inspection.

A 23-year-old male United States citizen from Mission, TX drove the vehicle. After a physical inspection and the use a non-intrusive imaging (NII) system along with the help of a canine team, CBP officers discovered 116.23 pounds of alleged liquid methamphetamine concealed within the vehicle.

CBP OFO seized the narcotics along with the vehicle, arrested the driver and turned him over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents for further investigation.

For more information about CBP, please click on the attached link.



Del Rio Border Patrol Seizes Meth Being Sneaked Around Checkpoint

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Agents discovered eight individually wrapped packages containing 10.4 pounds of methamphetamine. Photo by CBP.

DEL RIO, Texas – Border Patrol agents from the Del Rio Station located over 10 pounds of methamphetamine adjacent to the Highway 277 North Border Patrol Checkpoint.

 “Drug trafficking organizations, desperate for profit, will go to great lengths to try and elude detection and smuggle narcotics to the interior of the United States,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez. “Our agents use various law enforcement methods, like checkpoints, and adaptive patrol strategies to stop these criminals and their contraband well before they reach their destination.”

On the afternoon of Aug. 8, Del Rio Border Patrol agents were alerted to possible illegal activity in the remote area surrounding the Highway 277 checkpoint.

Agents responded and with the assistance of a service canine located a recently discarded backpack, hidden among the brush. Agents inspected the backpack and discovered eight individually wrapped packages containing 10.4 pounds of methamphetamine.

The seized narcotics had an estimated street value of nearly $50,000. Photo by CBP.

The seized narcotics, with an estimated street value of nearly $50,000, were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation.

“Smugglers within the Del Rio Sector area of responsibility are attempting to circumvent law enforcement by transporting humans and narcotics via foot around established checkpoints,” continued Chief Felix Chavez. “In this instance, the recovered drugs were packaged in a manner typically consistent with vehicle smuggling. However, it appears that the smuggler feared imminent detection at the checkpoint and resorted to a different yet unsuccessful strategy.”

The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations.

To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.



Eagle Pass Border Patrol Agents Arrest Convicted Sex Offender

Release Date: August 10, 2018

Juan Murillo-Gomez. Photo by CBP.

DEL RIO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested a convicted sex offender who, on multiple occasions, has been removed from the country.

 “The security of our border is our primary mission, and apprehensions like this help to keep our communities safe,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez. “Our agents will remain vigilant and alert to protect the American society against dangerous criminals.”

On Aug. 8, Juan Murillo-Gomez, 37, an illegal alien from Mexico, was apprehended by Eagle Pass Border Patrol agents near the downtown area. During processing, agents discovered that Murillo-Gomez was convicted of indecency with a child-sexual contact, in Dallas, in 2003. Following that conviction Murillo-Gomez was removed to Mexico.

Murillo-Gomez was apprehended again in Houston, in 2009. He was charged with illegal re-entry and served two years of incarceration and was removed to Mexico in 2013.

Murillo-Gomez faces a charge of illegal re-entry after deportation – 8 USC § 1326 – which carries a possible sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.



Carla L. Provost Named Chief of the US Border Patrol

Release Date: August 9, 2018

Chief U.S. Border Patrol Carla L. Provost. Photo by CBP.

WASHINGTON – On Thursday, Commissioner Kevin K. McAleenan announced the selection of Deputy Chief Carla L. Provost as the 18th chief of the U.S. Border Patrol. Chief Provost has served as acting chief of the U.S. Border Patrol since April 2017. 

 “There is no one more suited to lead the Border Patrol,” said Commissioner McAleenan. “It is my distinct honor to appoint Chief Provost to this position. I have absolute confidence in her experience, leadership, judgment and dedication to lead the Border Patrol, as well as her unwavering commitment to our mission, and our agency.”

Chief Provost has had a distinguished 23-year career in the U.S. Border Patrol, holding a wide variety of supervisory, management, and leadership positions having worked her way up through the ranks in key operational roles in some of the busiest sectors in the country.

She entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol in 1995, as a member of Class 277 and was first assigned as a Border Patrol agent at the Douglas Station in the Tucson Sector.

In 1998, she was promoted to a supervisory Border Patrol agent position, and in 2001 to a field operations supervisor position. In 2006, Chief Provost was promoted to assistant chief patrol agent at the Yuma Sector. In 2009, she became patrol agent in charge of the Wellton Station in the Yuma Sector. 

In 2011, Chief Provost was appointed to the Senior Executive Service (SES) as deputy chief patrol agent of the El Paso Sector. In 2013, she was named chief patrol agent for the El Centro Sector in Imperial, California, where she led 1,200 employees and oversaw all operations within her area of responsibility.

In July 2015, Chief Provost was named deputy assistant commissioner of Internal Affairs, where she oversaw compliance with all CBP-wide programs and policies relating to corruption, misconduct, or mismanagement. She became deputy chief of the U.S. Border Patrol in 2016.

“I am humbled and honored to accept this position and the challenges that come with it.” said Chief Provost. “The Border Patrol is a family, and I will do everything to live up to this great responsibility and represent my ‘family’ to the best of my ability. I am so proud of the men and women of the Border Patrol. I know first-hand the sacrifices they make every day to protect this country, and recognize the outstanding leadership we have, and the brave and tireless work of our agents. First and foremost, I want to be able to support our personnel with the resources and equipment they need to do their jobs in a safe and effective manner. Our people are our most important resource, and supporting them is my primary responsibility.”

Prior to joining the U.S. Border Patrol, Chief Provost served for several years as a police officer with the Riley County Police Department in Manhattan, Kansas.

Chief Provost earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Criminal Justice at Kansas State University, and a Master of Science in National-Resource Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C.



Border Patrol Agents Intercept Marijuana Smuggling Attempt at Checkpoint near Hebbronville, Texas

Release Date: August 9, 2018

Packages containing 207 pounds of marijuana seized by Border Patrol agents at the FM 1017 Border Patrol checkpoint. Photo by CBP.

LAREDO, Texas – On August 8, 2018, Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Hebbronville Station seized 207 pounds of marijuana at the checkpoint located on Farm to Market Road 1017 near Hebbronville, Texas.  

The narcotics were found concealed inside a false compartment of the rear diesel tank located in the bed of the truck after the vehicle was referred to secondary.

A total of 17 bundles were discovered worth an estimated $165,792. Border Patrol agents arrested the driver, a United States citizen. The driver, vehicle, and marijuana were turned over to the Jim Hogg County Sheriff’s Office.

To report suspicious activity such as drug and/or alien smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free telephone number at 1-800-343-1994.



Air Interdiction Agent from the McAllen Air Branch Rescues Drowning Woman

Release Date: August 9, 2018

Air and Marine agents saves woman from drowning in the Rio Grande. Photo by CBP.

LA JOYA, Texas – A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) Air Interdiction Agent jumped into the Rio Grande to save a drowning woman.

On Tuesday, AMO Air Interdiction Agents assigned to the McAllen Air and Marine Branch conducted line operations when they spotted a group of illegal aliens on the U.S. riverbank near La Joya, Texas.

As the agents alerted Border Patrol, the group ran back toward the Rio Grande and jumped off a 15 foot cliff into the river to swim back to Mexico. Agents observed as a single woman, who was hesitant to jump in, contemplate the decision.

Despite attempts to coax the woman off the cliff, the woman jumped into the river and immediately struggled to stay afloat.

After noticing the woman could not swim and that the group of illegal aliens refused to offer her assistance, one of the Air Interdiction Agents jumped into the water and retrieved her. The woman was not injured and did not require any medical attention.

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting suspicious activity at 800-863-9382. 

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.



Big Bend Agents Rescue Female in the Desert

Release Date: August 9, 2018

Desert Rescue in Big Bend, Texas. Photo by CBP.

SIERRA BLANCA, TX—The rescue of a female in the desert in west Texas culminated after Agents from the Sierra Blanca Border Patrol Station apprehended four male illegal aliens from Mexico and Guatemala near the Consuelo Ranch on April 7, 2018.

The group, who were in good health, had previously made a distress call via cell phone regarding a female in their group. The group said they left a female behind the previous day, at approximately 3:00 p.m. (MDT). 

They identified the missing female as Guatemalan, approximately 17-to-19 years of age. Border Patrol agents interviewed the group to get an approximate location of where they last saw the female.

Agents from the Sierra Blanca Station, and additional agents from El Paso Sector Mobile Response team, deployed in an attempt to locate the missing female. 

The following day, Sierra Blanca Station Agents, El Paso BORSTAR Agents, and CBP Air and Marine Agents with a rotary-wing aircraft continued to search for the missing female.

At approximately 10:45 a.m. the missing female was located. She was evaluated and provided with first aid at the rescue site, and found to be severely dehydrated.

A CBP Air and Marine aircraft transported the female and a BORSTAR agent to Interstate 10 and Farmers Market Road 192, where a Fort Hancock EMS took over the transport and provided medical assistance.

Fort Hancock EMS transported the female to Del Sol Medical Center in El Paso, Texas for further medical evaluation and treatment.  She remains at Del Sol Medical Center.



14 Illegal Aliens Apprehended After Border Patrol Encounters Two Trucks inside Two Ranches in Laredo, Texas

Release Date: August 9, 2018

LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents on Aug. 9 encountered two suspicious trucks inside two ranches believed to be involved in alien smuggling activity. 

 As agents attempted to get a closer look of the first vehicle, they observed multiple subjects exiting the vehicle and absconding into the brush. Agents searched the area and subsequently arrested several illegal aliens.  

The second vehicle was later seen exiting a ranch near the access road of Interstate Highway (IH-35) and the agents began to follow. The driver of the vehicle attempted to evade the agents by traveling south on the access road of IH-35.

The agents successfully deployed a Controlled Tire Deflation Device (CTDD) and successfully stopped the vehicle. Several occupants exited the vehicle and ran into the brush. Agents were able to arrest several illegal aliens and the driver. 

A total of 14 illegal aliens were apprehended during the events and were found in good health. The aliens were identified as being from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador and were transported to the Laredo North Station for processing.

To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free telephone number at 1-800-343-1994.



Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents Halt Narcotics Smuggling Attempt

Release Date: August 9, 2018

Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents seized 366 pounds of marijuana after encountering drug bundle loading activity on Manadas Creek near Mines Road. Photo by CBP.

LAREDO, Texas –Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents seized 366 pounds of marijuana after responding to suspicious activity near Mines Road in Laredo, Texas. 

On Aug. 8, agents encountered several subjects loading bundles into a black 2001 Ford Explorer near Manadas Creek on Mines Road.   

Upon encounter agents witnessed several subjects absconding back into Mexico.

Agents seized five bundles of marijuana with an estimated value of $293,568. The vehicle was seized and the marijuana was turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free at 1-800-343-1994.



Rio Grande Valley Sector Border Patrol agents disrupt eight human smuggling attempts

Release Date: August 8, 2018

Border Patrol and Air and Marine Operations stop eight smuggling attempts netting 55 arrests. Photo by CBP.

EDINBURG, Texas – U. S. Border Patrol agents interdict eight human smuggling attempts resulting in the apprehension of 55 illegal aliens.

On Monday, Rio Grande City agents responded to a report of a Ford F-350 loading illegal aliens. Mobile units responded to the area and located the vehicle near Roma, Texas.

As agents approached the vehicle, they observed multiple subjects exit and attempt to flee. An Air and Marine helicopter responded as well and assisted agents in apprehending 20 illegal aliens.

As additional agents responded to the aforementioned bailout, they encountered a Ford F-150 parked in the middle of the roadway.

As agents approached the vehicle, they encountered a group of 17 illegal aliens hidden in the nearby brush line.

Later that afternoon, McAllen agents observed illegal aliens getting into a Chevrolet Equinox near La Joya, Texas. Additional agents responded and located the vehicle near Military Road and Banworth Canal.

When agents encountered the vehicle, they observed several subjects fleeing the scene. Agents apprehended seven subjects who were all determined to be illegally present in the United States.

On Tuesday, McAllen agents responded to a report of illegal aliens traveling in a Buick sedan. When agents located the vehicle, it came to a stop and multiple subjects exited.

Agents apprehended one illegal alien and the United States citizen driver. All other subjects absconded back to Mexico.

That same day, Kingsville agents apprehended two United States citizens attempting to smuggle four illegal aliens through the Sarita checkpoint. Due to a K-9 alert, two vehicles were referred to secondary for inspection. While in secondary, agents discovered two subjects hidden in the truck of each vehicle.

Also in Kingsville, agents arrested two truck drivers who are United States citizens as they attempted to smuggle two illegal aliens in the air dam of the trailer they were driving.

A Falfurrias agent stopped to render aid to a motorist with a flat tire on Highway 281. As agents approached, they noticed a person concealed underneath blankets in the rear seat. During a search of the vehicle, agents discovered a juvenile stuffed inside a duffel bag on the back seat.

Agents arrested the driver, who is a United States citizen, and the both passengers who were illegally present in the United States. All cases remain under investigation and all subjects will be processed accordingly.

The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”   

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.



Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Stops Five Narcotic Smuggling Attempts

Release Date: August 8, 2018

Agents seize weapons, ammunition and narcotics during multiple busts. Photo by CBP.

EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents stop five separate narcotic smuggling attempts.

On Monday afternoon, Fort Brown agents working near Brownsville, Texas, responded to the report of several subjects carrying bundles of narcotics.

Upon arrival, agents apprehended a United States citizen and three Mexican nationals, each carrying a bundle of marijuana. The four bundles weighed over 46 pounds with an estimated value of $81K.

That same day at the Sarita checkpoint, Kingsville agents referred a Dodge Caravan to secondary inspection area after a Border Patrol K-9 alerted to the vehicle.

During inspection, agents located 171 grams of marijuana and a stolen semi-automatic pistol along with six rounds of ammunition. The driver and passenger, both United States citizens, were arrested.

Hours later, Kingsville agents arrested a 25 year-old, United States citizen after locating nearly 100 pounds of methamphetamine concealed within the Toyota Sienna he was driving. The methamphetamine has an estimated value of $3.1M.

Yesterday, Rio Grande City agents responded to a report of a narcotic smuggling attempt near La Rosita, Texas. Responding agents observed several subjects carrying bundles of narcotics. Shortly after, agents spotted a vehicle leaving the area and conducted a vehicle stop.

The driver and passengers exited vehicle and absconded back to Mexico. In the abandoned vehicle, agents found over 345 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated value of $276K.

This morning, Weslaco agents responded to a report of three subjects carrying bundles of narcotics. With the assistance of a helicopter from the Air and Marine Operations, agents located four subjects and four bundles of narcotics weighing nearly 300 pounds, worth an estimated value of over $237K. All cases remain under investigation.

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and report suspicious activity at 800-863-9382. 

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.



 

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