Below you will find new information reported drug, smuggling, human trafficking and illegal crossings that have occurred either on the Texas border and ports over the week of August 22 – August 28, 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. 22 – Aug. 28, 2018 •
Texas Border Reported Arrests/Apprehensions
Texas Border Reported Arrests/Apprehensions from the following counties;
• Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Ecuador, Brazil, Nicaragua, Bangladesh, India and United States Citizens Weekly Total: 271+ (“+”: see note below)
Of those above there were…
• 10 U.S. Citizens (USC)
• 3 MS-13 Gang Member(s)
• 2 18th Street Gang Member(s)
• 5 Convicted Child Sex Offender(s) (including 1 child rapist)
• 7 Rescue(s)
• 28+ Children/Unaccompanied Children
• 2 Fatalities
Note: +; U.S. Customs and Border Patrol did not list exact or specific totals on some reported incidents.
Texas Weekly Drug Total Seizures & Estimated Street Price
NOTE: The totals are an estimate. U.S. dollar and pounds used.
WIKILEAF• 2,975 lbs.
• $2,462,600 Million
• 3.2 lbs.
• $72,000
• 70.54 lbs.
• $1,689,400 Million
• 174 lbs.
• $1,317,200 Million
CBP Field Operations Seizes Heroin Worth over $1 Million at Pharr International Bridge
Release Date: August 28, 2018
PHARR, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Pharr International Bridge seized a substantial amount of heroin valued at $1,169,000 and arrested a man from Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico in connection with the failed drug smuggling attempt.
“This outstanding interception of hard narcotics was accomplished due to excellent perseverance and great inspectional techniques by our frontline officers,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “I thank our officers for their diligence and exceptional commitment to the CBP mission.”
On August 25, 2018 CBP officers working at the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge referred a 2015 silver Toyota Corolla driven by a 38-year-old male Mexican citizen for further inspection.
During the course of the secondary inspection and with the assistance of a canine team, officers discovered 29 packages of alleged heroin hidden within the vehicle. CBP OFO seized the narcotics, which weighed 51.54 pounds (23.38 kg) and seized the vehicle as well.
CBP OFO arrested the man who was then turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents for further investigation.
Border Patrol Agents Discover 20 Illegal Aliens Hidden in Semi-truck
Release Date: August 28, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Agents operating the Border Patrol Checkpoint on Interstate Highway (IH) 35 north of Laredo, Texas uncovered a smuggling attempt when they found 20 illegal aliens concealed in the sleeper compartment of a semi-tractor.
On August 27, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Laredo North Station encountered a 2012 black Volvo tractor truck at the primary inspection lane.
The agent requested and was granted consent to search the interior of tractor. Once the curtains covering the sleeper compartment were opened, 20 subjects were found concealed underneath some
blankets and miscellaneous items.
The driver, a United States citizen, along with the illegal aliens, was placed under arrest. After interviewing the subjects, agents determined they were citizens from the countries of Mexico, Brazil and Ecuador.
All of the individuals were evaluated and did not require medical attention. The vehicle was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol and 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 800-343-1994.
Border Patrol Agents Prevent Multiple Human Smuggling Attempts Near Freer, Texas
Release Date: August 28, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Freer Border Patrol Station recently disrupted multiple human smuggling attempts involving several vehicles traveling on Highway 44.
On August 28, agents observed several vehicles traveling in tandem on Highway 44 believed to be involved in a human smuggling attempt. Agents attempted to perform a vehicle stop on one of the vehicles, but the vehicle immediately rode off the highway and drove through a fence subsequently coming to a stop inside the brush.
A second vehicle was seen pulling over approximately 200 yards away and agents observed multiple individuals exit the vehicle and run towards the brush. As agents approached the vehicles, they successfully apprehended eight illegal aliens.
The illegal aliens were determined to be from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, India and Honduras.
All of the individuals were processed accordingly and the vehicles used in these smuggling attempts were seized by the United States Border Patrol.
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 800-343-1994.
Border Patrol Agents Prevent Human Smuggling Attempt, Apprehend 11 Illegal Aliens
Release Date: August 28, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Freer Border Patrol Station recently disrupted a human smuggling attempt involving a vehicle traveling on Farm Market Road 2050, arresting 11 illegal aliens in the enforcement action.
On August 28, Border Patrol agents received a citizen’s report about a suspicious vehicle traveling on Farm Market Road 2050 near the Cedro Hills Wind Farm. Agents encountered the vehicle, a maroon Chevrolet pickup truck, at the main gate of the wind farm.
Upon encounter, agents witnessed several subjects absconding to the brush. After a search of the area, agents arrested a total of 11 illegal aliens.
All of the individuals were processed accordingly and the vehicle used in the smuggling attempt was seized by the United States Border Patrol.
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 800-343-1994.
Border Patrol Agents Rescue Multiple Families from the Rio Grande River
Release Date: August 27, 2018
EAGLE PASS, Texas – In separate incidents over a 24-hour period U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Eagle Pass Station marine unit, rescued three families attempting to cross illegally into the United States.
“Our agents are constantly on patrol and ready to respond to life-threatening situations. This weekend our marine agents saved six people who risked their lives in the dangerous waters of the Rio Grande,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez. “Our agents relied on their training to rescue and evaluate the conditions of the adults and children they encountered.”
Marine agents, patrolling near the Eagle Pass downtown area on Aug. 24, saw people struggling in the water. Agents quickly responded and pulled two people, an adult and a child, out of the river’s current. The father and son, both from Honduras, were evaluated for injuries, but neither required medical attention.
In a separate event 24 hours later, in cooperation with Mexican migrant services, the marine agents
observed and rescued two women and two children
attempting to cross the river.
The adults requested medical attention and an Emergency Medical Technician evaluated all four who were then transported to Fort Duncan Medical Center for treatment for preexisting medical issues.
After they were released from the hospital, the two families were transported to the Eagle Pass South Station where they were processed per U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines.
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 866-511-8727.
Smugglers Use Caltrops to Disable Border Patrol Vehicle in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 27, 2018
PROGRESO, Texas – A homemade tire deflation device temporarily disabled a U.S. Border Patrol vehicle.
Yesterday, a Weslaco agent conducting operations along the Rio Grande noticed one of the service unit’s tire become flat.
After changing the tire, the agent discovered a homemade tire deflation device, also known as a caltrop, stuck in the tire.
Agents conducted a thorough search of the immediate area for any additional caltrops and found four buried underneath the soft dirt directly underneath the Progreso Port of Entry.
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.
Family Units and Unaccompanied Children Continue to Flow into the Rio Grande Valley
Agents continue to encounter large groups of family units and unaccompanied children. Photo by CBPRelease Date: August 27, 2018
WESLACO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Weslaco station apprehended a group of 59 illegal aliens near Hidalgo, Texas.
Early this morning, agents patrolling along the Rio Grande encountered a large group of illegal aliens consisting of several family units (51 total subjects) and eight unaccompanied children.
The group is comprised of men, women and children from the countries of Guatemala and Honduras.
The Border Patrol is processing the subjects 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 Sector Border Patrol Detains Four Gang Members
Release Date: August 27, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents throughout the Rio Grande Valley arrested three Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gang members and one 18th Street gang member.
On Friday, agents assigned to the McAllen station arrested two MS-13 gang members in separate incidents. Both men are Salvadoran nationals and their record checks revealed affiliation to the gang. The subjects also have prior orders of removal.
Later that evening, Rio Grande City agents apprehended a group of four illegal aliens near La Grulla, Texas. During record checks, agents discovered that one of the Salvadoran men has a prior removal order, an affiliation to the MS-13 gang, and an extensive criminal history. The Nassau County Police Department arrested the man for intimidating a witness, resisting arrest, assault-intent to cause physical injury with a weapon, and disorderly conduct. The man has an active warrant for violating his probation for the crimes listed.
Yesterday, Kingsville agents apprehended a Guatemalan national near Armstrong, Texas, in a group of 16 illegal aliens. During processing, the man’s record checks confirmed his affiliation to the 18th Street gang. His records revealed two prior removal orders as well as an extensive criminal background.
The Hillsboro Police Department and the Beaverton Police Department arrested and convicted the man for multiple crimes such as attempt to commit crime – felony assault, unlawful use of a weapon and menacing, unlawful possession of methamphetamine, probation violation/disorderly conduct, and disorderly conduct 2nd degree. The man served 118 days in jail and fined over $2K for the offenses committed.
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.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Agents Seize Over Half a Ton of Marijuana
Release Date: August 27, 2018
MISSION, Texas – On Friday, U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the McAllen station disrupted a single narcotics smuggling attempt and seized over $1M worth of marijuana.
Agents conducting operations near Mission, Texas, observed multiple subjects loading a vehicle with bundles of marijuana near the Rio Grande.
The Dodge pickup then departed the river area at a high rate of speed. Responding agents observed the driver return to the river, abandon the vehicle and swim back to Mexico.
Inside the vehicle, agents discovered over 1,300 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $1,057,600.00.
Agents seized the vehicle and turned the narcotics 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 U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
CBP at Hidalgo Seizes Cocaine Worth $500K, Arrests Child Smuggler
Release Date: August 24, 2018
HIDALGO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Hidalgo International Bridge recently arrested a 23-year-old man from Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico after detecting $500,000 worth of cocaine in the vehicle he was driving.
CBP also arrested a woman from Georgia after discovering she had a child in her vehicle that did not possess legal documentation to enter the United States.
“Our officers’ outstanding observational skills and inspection techniques resulted in the discovery of these failed smuggling attempts at our border crossing,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez., Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “People encountered
under these circumstances will face the fullest
punishment allowed by law.”
On August 21, a man from Monterrey arrived at the Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge driving a silver 2003 Honda Pilot and was referred for a secondary inspection. With the use of non-intrusive imaging technology (NII), officers discovered and removed 25 packages of alleged cocaine weighing approximately 60 pounds (26.30 kg). CBP OFO seized the narcotics and the vehicle as well.
That same day, CBP officers referred a 30-year-old woman and her three children for further inspection and after further investigation, officers discovered that one of the children was not her child. CBP officers determined that a 13-year-old girl was not related to the woman and was in fact a citizen of Mexico without valid documents to enter or reside in the United States legally.
CBP OFO arrested both individuals and the man was released to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for further investigation. The woman was held pending an appearance before a U.S. federal magistrate, on charges of alleged violation of U.S. immigration law. Her other children were released to a family member.
For more information on the immigration inspection process, visit this link on CBP.gov, Immigration Inspection Program.
CBP Officers Strike Twice and Seize Over $1.5 Million in Narcotics at the World Trade Bridge
Release Date: August 24, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers assigned to the World Trade Bridge recently seized over $1.5 million in narcotics in two separate enforcement actions.
“CBP has numerous layers of enforcement and our officer’s 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. “I congratulate the officers in enforcing the CBP mission and protecting the public from illegal narcotics.”
The latest seizure occurred on Thursday, August 23, when a CBP officer referred a 1995 Chevrolet pickup for a secondary examination. A non-intrusive imaging system and canine inspection by CBP officers resulted in the discovery of nine packages containing nine pounds of alleged heroin.
On Tuesday, August 21, CBP officers at the same bridge referred a 1999 Freightliner tractor with a shipment of mineral substance for a secondary examination. A non-intrusive imaging system and canine inspection by CBP officers resulted in the discovery of 70 packages containing 174 pounds of alleged cocaine.
Both seizures have a combined estimated street value of $1,577,200. CBP OFO seized the narcotics. The cases remain under investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents.
For more information about CBP, please click on the attached link.
CBP Foils Suspect’s Attempt to Evade Arrest
Officers stop traveler wanted for child rape from boarding international flight
Release Date: August 24, 2018
DALLAS – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport intercepted a man with a felony warrant attempting to depart the U.S. on a flight to Guatemala, Aug. 23.
Octaviano Boche Arevalo, a 48-year old Guatemalan citizen, had a warrant out of Framingham, Massachusetts for felony rape of a child. Boche Arevalo has no legal status in the United States and was previously ordered removed five times.
“As a law enforcement agency, CBP takes every opportunity to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies at all levels in our quest to intercept illegal activity and those who are suspected of committing such,” said Area Port Director, Area Port of Dallas, Cleatus P. Hunt Jr. “This arrest is an example of our dedication to working with our partners to keep our communities safe and apprehend those who violate U.S. law.”
Framingham Police officers contacted CBP in Boston in attempt to intercept Boche Arevalo who was suspected of evading arrest by departing the country. Boston CBP officers determined that Boche Arevalo was boarding a flight to Guatemala departing from Dallas. Minutes before the flight was to depart, CBP officers intercepted the suspect on the jetbridge. CBP officers arrested the suspect and turned him over to Dallas Fort Worth Airport Department of Public Safety where he awaits extradition to Framingham, Mass.
“I commend our CBP officers in Boston and the CBP officers in Dallas for their collaboration which was integral to stop this dangerous individual from avoiding the laws of the United States,” said Boston-Logan Port Director Linda Brown. “This reaffirms the importance of the work we do on a daily basis and highlights how important it is that we continue to work as a team throughout the nation.”
On a typical day in fiscal year 2017, CBP officers around the country arrested 21 wanted criminals at U.S. ports of entry.
CBP Stops Pedestrian With Methamphetamine Load
Release Date: August 24, 2018
EL PASO, TEXAS – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the El Paso port of entry seized 3.2 pounds of methamphetamine Thursday. The drugs were hidden in a bag.
“CBP officers utilize a variety of tools to identify and stop drug smuggling attempts,” said Ray Provencio, acting CBP El Paso Port Director. “History has shown smugglers will employ a variety of means in their attempts to cross contraband.”
The seizure was made at approximately 1:30 p.m. when a 36-year-old male U.S. citizen male entered the port from Mexico as a pedestrian. CBP officers
scanned the bag he was carrying and spotted bundles
consistent with previous drug smuggling attempts.
A CBP drug sniffing dog searched the bag and provided a positive alert for the presence of drugs. CBP officers continued the inspection and removed three foil wrapped bundles from the bag. The contents tested positive for methamphetamine.
CBP officers arrested the man. He was turned over to ICE Homeland Security Investigations to face charges associated with the failed smuggling attempt.
In addition to the methamphetamine seizure area CBP officers on Thursday seized a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, stopped prohibited agricultural items from entering the U.S., and made five fugitive apprehensions.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Agents seize nearly 1,200 pounds of marijuana within hours
Release Date: August 24, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – Yesterday, U.S. Border Patrol agents in the Rio Grande Valley disrupted three separate marijuana smuggling attempts worth nearly $1M.
Early yesterday morning, Harlingen agents observed a Ford F-150 pickup traveling along a dirt road toward the Rio Grande near Los Indios, Texas. The pickup then departed the river area at a high rate of speed. Mobile units located the vehicle and observed the driver and a passenger abandon the pickup and attempt to flee.
Inside the Ford F-150, agents discovered over 830 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $700K. Agents searched the area and located a 27-year-old Mexican national nearby.
An hour later, agents working near Havana, Texas, were patrolling along the Rio Grande when they discovered several bundles of marijuana abandoned along the pathway. The marijuana weighed over 200 pounds and is worth an estimated $175K.
Several hours later, agents working near Calaboz, Texas, responded to a report of several subjects carrying bundles of narcotics attempting to scale the border wall.
Agents responded to the area and observed several subjects jump into the Rio Grande and swim back to Mexico. A search of area resulted in the discovery of a ladder utilized during the attempt to scale the wall and three bundles of marijuana. The marijuana weighed approximately 145 pounds and is worth an estimated $116K.
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.
Criminal Aliens and Gang Member Arrests Continue in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 24, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents throughout the Rio Grande Valley continue to arrest criminals.
On Wednesday, Falfurrias agents arrested a Honduran national near Palito Blanco, Texas. Record checks revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant out of the Dekalb Sheriff’s Office in Georgia, as he was arrested for rape.
Later that same day, Rio Grande City agents apprehended a Honduran national near Roma, Texas. During processing, record checks confirmed an arrest and charge for Child Molesting, Resisting Law Enforcement and Sexual Battery by the Evansville County Sheriff’s Office. The subject received a one-year confinement conviction.
Yesterday, Falfurrias agents arrested an adult Salvadoran national. Through record checks, agents confirmed the man is an 18th Street gang member.
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.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Agents Rescue Two in Response to 911 Calls
Release Date: August 24, 2018
Yesterday morning, agents assigned to the Falfurrias station responded to a 911 call received by the Starr County Sheriff’s Office regarding a lost subject.
Agents searched the vicinity of the last know geographical coordinates and located the Salvadoran male.
A few hours later, Falfurrias agents responded to a separate 911 call received by the Brooks County Sheriff’s Office regarding a lost subject.
Agents searched the last geographical coordinates provided and rescued the Salvadoran male. Agents offered medical attention to both subjects.
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.
RGV Border Patrol Agents Discover Deceased Subject in the Rio Grande
Release Date: August 24, 2018
PENITAS, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents discovered a deceased individual on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande near Penitas, Texas.
On August 21, 2018, agents observed a subject struggling to stay afloat in the middle of the river.
McAllen riverine agents responded to the area within minutes but were unable to locate the subject. The Penitas Fire Department also responded to the area to assist.
It is believed that the deceased subject discovered is the same individual agents attempted to rescue days earlier based on the clothing description. Agents notified Mexican officials who will dispatch their local first responders to extract the decedent.
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.
CBP Arrests Two Men Wanted on Child Sexual Assault Charges at Hidalgo International Bridge
Release Date: August 24, 2018
HIDALGO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Hidalgo International Bridge recently arrested two men wanted on child sexual assault charges in separate, unrelated incidents.
“Within a 72-hour period, our CBP officers have detected and arrested two men wanted on charges for child sexual assault this week,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/ Pharr /Anzalduas Port of Entry. “CBP Field Operations is always ready to assist our law enforcement partners in locating individuals who are fugitives of the law in order to face the
consequences of their alleged actions.”
CBP officers assigned to the Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge on Aug. 20 encountered Julio Cesar Perez Jr., a 22-year-old male U.S. citizen from San Juan, Texas as he arrived from Mexico as a pedestrian.
A primary inspection revealed that he was a possible match to an outstanding arrest warrant and in secondary, biometric verification through law-enforcement and CBP databases confirmed the active warrant from the Pharr Police Department for aggravated sexual assault of a child, a first-degree felony.
On Aug. 22, Nicolas Salas, a 39-year-old male U.S. citizen from Penitas, Texas arrived at the same border crossing as a passenger in a white Ford F-150 and was referred for further inspection after being identified as a possible match to an arrest warrant.
CBP officers confirmed the active arrest warrant from the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office in Waxahachie, Texas, aggravated sexual assault of a child.
CBP OFO arrested both men who were ultimately turned over to the Pharr Police Department and Hidalgo Police Department, respectively. Salas will await extradition proceedings at the Hidalgo County jail.
Criminal charges are merely allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
For more information on the immigration inspection process visit this link on CBP.gov, Immigration Inspection Program.
Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents Arrest Assaultive Illegal Alien
Release Date: August 23, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents encountered an assaultive subject while arresting a group of illegal aliens.
On August 22, agents assigned to the Zapata Border Patrol Station conducted a vehicle stop on a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe on U.S. Highway 83. An immigration inspection of the occupants by agents determined that six individuals were illegally present in the United States.
During the arrest one illegal alien struck the agent several times using his fist and attempted to grab the agent’s legs in an attempt to take the agent to the ground.
Once the assaultive illegal alien was subdued, agents placed all individuals under arrest and transported them to the Zapata Border Patrol Station for processing. At the station, agents discovered the assaultive illegal alien had two felony convictions.
One of the convictions was for illegal re-entry and the second for alien in possession of a firearm.
Border Patrol took the driver and passenger, both U.S. citizens, into custody and seized the vehicle. The other five illegal aliens were determined to be from the countries of Mexico and Guatemala.
“The men and women of Border Patrol face many dangers on a daily basis while securing the borders of the United States. Thankfully, in this incident, there were no serious injuries,” 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 800-343-1994.
Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents Apprehend 18 Illegal Aliens Inside Sleeper Cabin of Tractor Trailer
Release Date: August 23, 2018
LAREDO, Texas –Laredo Sector U.S. Border Patrol agents recently apprehended 18 illegal aliens inside the sleeper cabin of a tractor-trailer during an immigration inspection at the Interstate Highway 35 Border Patrol checkpoint.
The incident occurred on Aug. 21 after a tractor-trailer approached the primary inspection lane of the Border Patrol Checkpoint on Interstate Highway 35. Agents referred the driver to secondary after a canine alert.
At secondary inspection, agents found 18 illegal immigrants confined inside the sleeper cabin of the tractor-trailer.
The 18 illegal aliens were found in good health and identified as being from the countries of Mexico and Guatemala.
The driver, a United States citizen, was arrested and the tractor-trailer was seized by Border Patrol.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is the lead investigative agency in this case.
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 800-343-1994.
CBP Officers at the Laredo Port of Entry Seize More Than $260K in Heroin
Packages containing 10 pounds of heroin seized by CBP officers at Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo, Texas. Photo by CBPRelease Date: August 23, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers at the Laredo Port of Entry recently seized over $260,000 in heroin in one enforcement action.
“I commend our CBP officers for a job well done,” said Port Director Albert Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “Our CBP officers’ experience, hard work, perseverance and utilization of the canine and non-intrusive imaging system resulted in the interception of these hard narcotics.”
The seizure occurred on Wednesday, August 22 at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge when a CBP officer referred a 1994 Buick Sedan driven by a 31-year-old male United States citizen from San Antonio, Texas 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 five packages containing a total of 10 pounds of alleged heroin. The narcotics have an estimated street value of $260,400.
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 on the attached link.
Border Patrol Agents Rescue Lost Individual Suffering from Dehydration
Release Date: August 22, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Laredo Sector Missing Migrant Program on Aug. 21 obtained information regarding a lost individual in distress at a ranch south of Hebbronville, Texas.
While conducting an interview on an individual who was previously rescued from the elements on August 20, Border Patrol agents obtained information regarding another individual that was left behind by the smugglers at a ranch house and described to be in poor health.
Agents immediately disseminated the information and agents assigned to the Hebbronville Station initiated a search for the individual.
After an extensive search, the individual was located and in need of medical assistance. Agents requested the assistance of the Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) unit to have Emergency Medical Technicians evaluate the individual.
BORSTAR agents responded and immediately provided medical assistance. Once the individual was stabilized, he was transported to a local hospital where he received further treatment due to dehydration.
The individual was determined to be a juvenile from the country of Honduras and was processed accordingly.
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 800-343-1994.
Another Rescue and Recovery for Rio Grande Valley Sector Border Patrol
Release Date: August 22, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents rescued a man abandoned on a dirt road and discovered another deceased individual.
Yesterday afternoon, Rio Grande City agents encountered a Mexican man laying along a dirt road who illegally entered the United States near Roma, Texas. Agents provided medical attention to the distressed man and transported him to a local hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
Hours later, Weslaco agents discovered a deceased individual along a water basin south of Mercedes, Texas. The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office and the local Justice of the Peace responded to the location and took custody of the decedent.
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.
Border Patrol Agents and Homeland Security Investigations Intercept Alien Smuggling Attempt
Release Date: August 22, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents assisted Homeland Security Investigations apprehend 34 illegal aliens during an alien smuggling attempt in Laredo, Texas.
The incident transpired on Aug. 22 when Homeland Security Investigations requested assistance from Border Patrol agents regarding a possible alien smuggling attempt utilizing a tractor-trailer in central Laredo, Texas.
Upon further inspection of the tractor-trailer, Border Patrol agents discovered 34 illegal aliens inside the trailer.
The illegal aliens, 29 males and five females, were found in good health and were identified as being from the countries of Mexico, Brazil, Ecuador, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Honduras. All subjects were processed accordingly.
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 800-343-1994.
Discovery of Deceased and Rapid Rescue in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 22, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents throughout the Rio Grande Valley continue to encounter illegal aliens put in perilous situations.
Yesterday, Kingsville agents responded to a report of a deceased subject located on a local ranch. Agents notified the Kenedy County Sheriff’s Office and a Justice of the Peace, who pronounced the subject deceased and transported the decedent to a medical examiner’s office.
Early this morning, McAllen agents encountered a group of illegal aliens near La Joya, Texas. As agents made contact with the group, two subjects jumped into a canal and immediately began to struggle to stay afloat. An agent noticed the two distressed illegal aliens and rescued them by pulling them out of the canal.
The agent provided basic medical attention. After an evaluation by a Border Patrol Emergency Medical Technician, the two illegal aliens were transported to a local hospital for further medical 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 U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Over 500 pounds of Marijuana seized by Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol
Release Date: August 22, 2018
LA CASITA, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents interdicted a marijuana smuggling attempt along the Rio Grande.
Early this morning, Rio Grande City Station agents observed several subjects illegally cross the Rio Grande south of La Casita, Texas.
As agents began to track the group, they discovered eight bundles of marijuana along the path.
An extensive search of the area resulted in the apprehension of five illegal aliens.
The marijuana weighed over 500 pounds and has an estimated value of $414K.
Agents turned the narcotics 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 U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Border Patrol Agents Encounter Large Group in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 22, 2018
WESLACO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Weslaco station apprehended a group of 54 illegal aliens near Hidalgo, Texas.
This afternoon, agents patrolling along the Rio Grande encountered a large group of illegal aliens consisting of 19 family units (38 total subjects), 14 unaccompanied children and two adults. The group is comprised of men, women and children from the country of Guatemala.
Agents requested assistance to transport the subjects to 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.
Del Rio Sector Border Patrol Agents Arrest 10 Illegal Aliens from Bangladesh
Release Date: August 21, 2018
DEL RIO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Eagle Pass Station arrested 10 illegal aliens from Bangladesh.
“Our Border Patrol agents face unique challenges every day and may encounter persons from different regions of the world. I commend them for their vigilance and commitment to safeguard our nation’s borders,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez.
In the early morning of Aug. 20, agents apprehended 10 people after the subjects made illegal entry into the United States. All subjects were transported to the Eagle Pass South Border Patrol Station and processed per U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines.
All people apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks utilizing multiple databases including the use of biometrics to ensure those with criminal history are positively identified regardless of their immigration status.
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 866-511-8727.
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