Recent Texas Border Activity: CBP Apprehend 1,216 Criminals, Illegals And Seize Over $30 Million In Drugs
Staff Report
NOTE: Corridor News has reached out to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for additional information and were informed that protecting the border and the U.S. Citizens is their first priority. Therefore, we expect what information we receive will be minimal.
Below you will find the latest information available for reported drug smuggling, human trafficking and illegal crossings that have occurred on the Texas border and ports.
It has been published by many news outlets around the country that the criminal activity on our Texas-Mexico border has been consistently dropping over the last couple of years, and Americans and Texans have been given inconsistent information on what is occurring on our border.
Our U.S. border issues are complex, and they affect all Texans.
This is our home, and to most Texans, the border isn’t a political issue or a tool to use against another political party; this is a safety and security issue for us, our children, families, friends and our local and national law enforcement.
As you read below, we hope the information provided will help all Texans to better understand the problems happening on our southern border and what we need to do to repair our current immigration laws and policies that stem from our lawmakers in D.C.
However, to better understand if these are real problems or just political bloviation concerning our southern border with drug smuggling, human trafficking of children and adults, unaccompanied children and illegal immigrant crossings that include gang members and many from terrorist countries, we need the real numbers, facts and statistics.
Texas isn’t the only state that shares a border with Mexico. Therefore, as you read our weekly report below, remember this information is only what is occurring on the Texas-Mexico border and Texas ports.
This information has been gathered and compiled directly from information given to us by 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 are providing to you, we can only decipher the information that is released to us. Therefore, the number of incidents, arrests, types of narcotics, weight or the street value of said narcotics is considered the minimum amount.
We give the totals of illegal crossing arrests, including their nationality, drug seizures including weight and “street value” totals, current charges or convictions of those apprehended and other items to help all of us make educated decisions. Additionally, we include links to our other weekly border stories.
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 800-863-9382.
Help Customs and Border secure our homeland, find out more at cbp.gov/careers.
Read related border coverage:
- April 25, 2019: Recent Texas Border Activity: CBP Apprehend Over 1,880 And Seize Over $10.5 Million In Drugs
NOTE: The totals below for arrests, apprehensions, seizures, drugs, etc. are ONLY what is reported by Customs & Border Protection to us. There are multiple incidents that happen everyday on all U.S. borders that aren’t reported. Corridor News is not responsible for the information that is NOT reported or incorrectly reported.
• May 9 – May 22, 2019 •
Texas Border Reported Arrests/Apprehensions
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Reported Arrests/Apprehensions from the following counties;
• El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras Nicaragua, Ecuador, Belize and USC (U.S. Citizen)
• Arrests/Apprehensions: 1,216+ (“+”: see note below)
Of those above there were…
• Rescue(s): 73
• US Citizen(s): 3
• Child Sex Offender(s): 4
• Seizures
° Passenger Vehicle(s) Seized: 7
° Commercial Vehicle(s): 3
° Shipment of Fresh Carrots
° Shipment of Circuit Breakers
• Arrests with Prior Criminal Conviction(s) or Active Criminal Warrant(s)
NOTE: There are multiple incidents involving criminals from Central America, the United States and most all other countries that happen daily on all U.S. borders. However, the totals below include ONLY what is has reported by U.S. Customs & Border Protection and ONLY along the Texas border. Corridor News is not responsible for what is NOT reported or incorrectly reported
• Outstanding Warrant(s): 1
• Prior Criminal Conviction(s): 4
• Current Charge(s): 1
- Prior Conviction: Mexican National – Records checks revealed an extensive criminal history in the United States, including an aggravated felony conviction in 1998 on multiple counts of transporting and selling narcotics, for which he was sentenced to four years in prison.
- Prior Conviction: Honduran National – Prior conviction in Brookhaven, Georgia in 2016 for child molestation. The man was sentenced to 18 months confinement and was deported from the United States in 2018. face a charge of 8 USC § 1326 – re-entry after deportation, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
- Prior Conviction: Honduran National – Honduran National: Prior conviction in Harrisonburg, Virginia in 2008 on four counts of sexual crimes against a child. The man was sentenced to five years confinement and was deported from the United States in April 2010. face a charge of 8 USC § 1326 – re-entry after deportation, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
- Prior Conviction: Honduran National – Prior conviction in Duplin County, North Carolina in 2017 for indecent liberties with a child. Rodriguez-Zelaya was sentenced to two and a half years confinement and was removed from the United States.
- Prior Conviction: El Salvador National – Previously charged with a first degree felony molestation of a victim less than 12 years of age in Boynton Beach, Florida. That charge was later reduced to a second degree felony of lewd or lascivious conduct, which he pleaded guilty to. Diaz served 12 months in prison before being removed from the United States
- Active Warrant: U.S. Citizen – Warrant out of Bexar County for arrest for a hit and run misdemeanor violation.
- Current Charges (Charged at border): U.S. Citizen – Child Smuggling: presented her before a U.S. federal magistrate for alleged violation of U.S. immigration law.
*NOTE: Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
**Note: “+”; U.S. Customs and Border Patrol did not list specific totals and/or countries on some reported incidents.
Texas Border Weekly Narcotic Seizures & Estimated Street Price
*NOTE: The totals below are an estimate of what was reported to us. U.S. dollar and pounds used.
° 3,918 lbs.
° $783,000
Y
° 1,283.51 lbs.
° $28,174,672
Y
° 28 lbs.
° $358,064
Y
° 48 lbs.
° $1,109,000
Y
• Estimated Street Value of Narcotics: $30,424,736 Million(+)
U.S. Border Patrol in the Rio Grande Valley Sector continues to take measures during current humanitarian and border security crisis
McAllen, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol Stations and the Centralized Processing Center to include the Donna Temporary Facility are holding an average of 8,000 illegal aliens in recent days, a result of waves of migrants fleeing El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Despite the addition of a soft-sided temporary facility constructed in Donna, Texas, the sheer number of illegal aliens crossing through the Rio Grande Valley has reached record levels, straining the sector’s capacity to process individuals.
In order to create more capacity, agents and other personnel tasked to patrol the border have been re-assigned to construct four temporary structures at both the McAllen and Rio Grande City Border Patrol stations in order to provide additional shelter for individuals awaiting their turn to be processed.
These additional structures, which are equipped with generators, lighting and HVAC systems expand the sector’s processing capacity.
“The longer illegal aliens remain in custody, the harder it can become to sustain our operations but housing the migrants in these tents is the default solution,” said Chief Patrol Agent Rodolfo Karisch.“This is the reality of what happens when we simply cannot handle the influx of migrants arriving. We are doing all we can to ensure a safe environment for all involved but it is crystal clear that we have a real emergency on the border; this is not sustainable.”
At the Centralized Processing Center, individuals receive new clothing and shoes in addition to food and medical care. Costs to maintain and accommodate the needs of those being in custody have reached the tens of thousands of dollars per day.
Members of the DHS Surge Capacity Force, which is comprised of civilian employees along with the Coast Guard, Federal Protective Service, Office of Field Operations and Department of Defense (DOD) personnel from throughout the nation are assisting the sector in transporting migrants; providing administrative support, meal distribution and monitoring the welfare of individuals in CBP custody, however; DOD personnel are not conducting law enforcement actions.
The care and support provided to the record number of individuals crossing the Southwest Border have created challenges for the agents who now have to split their core mission of protecting national security with care of the record number of individuals under their custody.
With the increase in the number of crossings come health concerns, as the sector is seeing a proportional increase in trips to local hospitals. Currently, RGV sector averages 20 hospital visits per day which may impact local hospital wait times.
Border Patrol Agents Arrest Smuggled Aliens at Hotel
Eagle Pass, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Eagle Pass Station arrested a human smuggler and six illegal aliens at a local hotel.
“While family units continue to cross the border and give themselves up to Border Patrol agents, there are those who attempt to cross the border illegally and evade arrest for nefarious reasons,” said Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Randy Davis. “Even with Del Rio Sector’s resources being diverted to the humanitarian crisis, we will not lose focus on Border Security.”
On May 21, agents arrested a smuggler and six illegal aliens at a hotel in Eagle Pass after conducting surveillance operations. The six illegal aliens were comprised of five single adult males and one 17-year-old male, all from Honduras. All will be processed per U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines.
The human smuggler faces federal prosecution for 8 USC § 1324 – alien smuggling, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
All individuals 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.
Del Rio Sector Border Patrol Sees 1,600 Percent Increase of Cuban Nationals
Del Rio, Texas –The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector has seen a 1,600 percent increase of Cuban nationals crossing the Rio Grande River illegally.
“Migrants seeking entry into the United States need to present themselves at a Port of Entry to be lawfully admitted,” said Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Randy Davis. “This recent trend in the Del Rio Sector area of responsibility of Cuban Nationals crossing the border illegally between the POEs highlights the complexity of the immigration problem and the need for an immediate solution.”
In Fiscal Year 2019, Border Patrol agents within Del Rio Sector have apprehended 119 Cuban nationals. This is a dramatic increase of 1,600 percent compared to the previous Fiscal Year 2018 to date, when agents arrested seven Cuban nationals.
The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector apprehends migrants from countries across the world. In Fiscal Year 2019, which began Oct. 1, 2018, to date, agents have apprehended more than 23,000 people from 30 different countries, other than Mexico, who made their way into the United States illegally. This number is about a 450 percent increase over Fiscal Year 2018 to date.
Border Patrol Nabs a Previously Deported Child Molester within a Group of Aliens
El Paso, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol Agents arrested a previously deported child molester as he attempted to enter the United States illegally near downtown El Paso, Texas. The El Paso Sector agents see no decrease in the number of groups entering illegally into the U.S. as it enters mid-month of May.
Late Saturday May 18, U.S. Border Patrol Agents working near the downtown area arrested a group of illegal aliens as they attempted to enter the United States. Included in the group were a family unit consisting of a father, mother, and two minor children.
Record checks revealed that the father, 42-year-old Julianito De Jesus Diaz from El Salvador, had been previously charged with a first degree felony molestation of a victim less than 12 years of age in Boynton Beach, Florida.
That charge was later reduced to a second degree felony of lewd or lascivious conduct, which he pleaded guilty to. Diaz served 12 months in prison before being removed from the United States to El Salvador via Miami, Florida in February 2002.
The subject will remain in custody pending criminal and immigration prosecution for his prior order of removal and criminally prosecuted for illegal re-entry.
This is an ongoing situation that Border Patrol Agents face in southern New Mexico and El Paso, Texas: hundreds of parents and children are being encountered by agents after having faced a dangerous trek north while convicted criminals attempt to avoid detection by circumventing agents who are occupied detaining large family groups.
CBP Field Operations at Pharr International Bridge Interdicts Colossal Load of Methamphetamine Worth Over $18 Million
Pharr, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Pharr International Bridge intercepted a significant amount of methamphetamine in a commercial shipment worth $18.5 million this past weekend.
“This is truly a huge, notable interception of hard narcotics accomplished by our frontline officers in the cargo environment,” said Port Director Sylvia Briones, Port of Hidalgo/ Pharr/ Anzalduas. “Our officers’ mindset and dedication are genuinely apparent as evidenced by this outstanding seizure.”
CBP officers assigned to the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge cargo facility on May 17, 2019, referred a tractor/trailer pulling a commercial shipment of fresh carrots for further inspection.
A secondary examination, which included the utilization of non-intrusive imaging equipment, a canine team together with hands-on work resulted in the discovery of 384 packages of alleged methamphetamine discovered within the trailer. The total weight of the drugs is 929.5 pounds (421.5 kg).
CBP OFO seized the methamphetamine, the tractor/trailer and the case remains under investigation by agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
CBP Officers Intercept $783K in Marijuana at World Trade Bridge
Laredo, Texas – As Laredo edges closer toward searing summer temperatures, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers maintained strict vigilance in its border security posture and seized a total of more than $783,000 in marijuana in a single enforcement action at World Trade Bridge.
“Amid balmy, summer-like weather, our frontline CBP officers maintain an effective balance between security and facilitation and seized a significant amount of narcotics,” said Port Director Albert Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “Large seizures like this one underscore the seriousness of the drug threat our officers face on a daily basis and reaffirm our resolve to keep our border communities safe and secure.”
The seizure occurred on Friday, May 17 at the World Trade Bridge after a 1996 Freightliner tractor hauling a manifested shipment of circuit breakers was referred for a secondary examination.
Following a canine and non-intrusive imaging system inspection, CBP officers discovered 165 bundles containing a total of 3,918 pounds of alleged marijuana hidden within the conveyance. The narcotics have an estimated street value of $783,426.
CBP officers seized the narcotics and the case was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) special agents for further investigation.
Sierra Blanca Border Patrol Canine Team Seizes Nearly Four Million Dollars’ Worth of Liquid Methamphetamine
Sierra Blanca, Texas – A U.S. Border Patrol agent and his canine partner assigned to the Sierra Blanca Border Patrol Station seized approximately 118 pounds of liquid methamphetamine, worth almost four million dollars.
Chief Patrol Agent of Big Bend Sector Matthew J. Hudak said, “The great work done by this canine team prevented a significant amount of dangerous drugs from entering our country and contributing to criminal activity far beyond the border. This case is another example of the diligent and commendable work done by Border Patrol Agents every day.”
On Friday, May 3, a Sierra Blanca Border Patrol Agent and canine partner discovered two suitcases located in the lower luggage compartment of a passenger bus at the Sierra Blanca checkpoint.
Inside the suitcases agents discovered 90 plastic bottles containing liquid methamphetamine, for an approximate weight of 118 pounds.
The successful seizure is attributed to a highly trained canine alerting to the narcotics and the canine handler’s years of experience.
The discovery was made while immigration inspections were being conducted on the passengers on board the bus. Agents were unable to associate the narcotics to a passenger. The narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further processing.
Big Bend Sector Border Patrol agents, patrol 517 miles of the southwest border, an area that extends from Sierra Blanca, Texas to Sanderson, Texas. The Sierra Blanca Station area of responsibility consists of more than half of Hudspeth County or about 2500 square miles.
The station is responsible for 73 border miles between the U.S. and Mexico. More than 10,000 vehicles travel through the Sierra Blanca checkpoint on a daily basis. The U.S. Border Patrol is made up of over 19,000 brave men and women who courageously secure our nation’s borders.
CBP Officers at Laredo Port of Entry Seize Over $703K Worth in Hard Narcotics Over the Weekend
Laredo, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) CBP officers at Laredo Port of Entry recently seized a significant amount of hard narcotics with a combined total street value exceeding $703,000 in two enforcement actions over the weekend.
“These significant seizures illustrate the commitment our CBP officers have in keeping these dangerous narcotics off our streets while processing traffic in a timely manner,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry.
The largest seizure occurred on Sunday, May 19, when CBP officers at the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge seized 28 pounds of alleged cocaine in 11 packages concealed within a 2006 Honda pickup, driven by a 19-year-old male United States citizen, a resident of Dallas, Texas.
The second seizure occurred on Saturday, May 18, when CBP officers at the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge seized 24 pounds of alleged methamphetamine in 35 packages hidden within a 2003 Honda Accord, driven by a 55-year-old male Mexican citizen who resides in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.
The narcotics combined have an estimated street value of $703,153.
CBP seized the narcotics and the vehicles. The drivers were arrested and the cases were turned over to Homeland Security Investigations special agents.
CBP Arrests Wanted Man
Airline employee sought specialized airport access
San Antonio, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the San Antonio International Airport arrested a man wanted on suspicion of hit and run, Thursday.
A 46-year-old airline employee was seeking access to the federal inspection service area when he was apprehended.
“As a law enforcement agency, we collaborate with our partners to return fugitives to justice,” said CBP Port Director Lois Hunter. “Anyone seeking entry to the U.S. or access to a federal inspection service area will undergo scrutiny. If that person is wanted, we will take the appropriate law enforcement action.”
In this instance, the U.S. citizen was seeking access to CBP’s area at the airport. As part of the application process, those requesting the authority to work in an airport’s federal inspection service area require a background check.
During that check, officers discovered a May 3, 2019 warrant out of Bexar County for arrest for a hit and run misdemeanor violation.
CBP officers apprehended the suspect and turned him over to the San Antonio Airport Police Department.
Charges and allegations contained in criminal complaints are merely accusations. Suspects are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The men and women of CBP are responsible for enforcing more than 400 U.S. laws and regulations for more than 40 different agencies.
On a typical day in the fiscal year 2018, CBP officers arrested 75 wanted criminals at U.S. ports of entry.
CBP Officers in Pharr Arrest Man with Prohibited Prescription Drugs
Pharr, Texas — Officers with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Pharr International Bridge arrested a male Mexican citizen after discovering undeclared prohibited prescription drugs.
“Every person is subject to and can be inspected at the ports of entry,” said Port Director Sylvia Briones, Port of Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas. “This particular examination began as a routine inspection and resulted in the discovery of prohibited prescription drugs that won’t make their illicit distribution.”
On May 17, 2019, CBP officers at the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge encountered a 24-year-old man, from Rio Bravo, Tamaulipas, Mexico arriving in a white Ford 500 sedan.
After referring him for further inspection, officers in secondary discovered prohibited prescription drugs hidden in his baggage and on his person. CBP OFO seized 752 Xanax (benzodiazepines) tablets and 219 Oxycodone (Roxicodone) pills.
Some prescription drugs sold outside the United States (including drugs manufactured for sale outside the United States) may not be approved by the FDA and would not be appropriate for importation.
CBP OFO arrested the man from Rio Bravo and turned him over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents for further investigation.
Brackettville Border Patrol Agents Arrest Convicted Sex Offender
Honduran National Previously Deported
Del Rio, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Brackettville Station arrested a convicted sex offender.
“Del Rio Sector remains committed to protecting our communities,” said Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Randy Davis. “Preventing dangerous criminals from entering the United States and having the opportunity to do further harm remains one of our highest priorities.”
On May 15, Border Patrol agents from the Brackettville Station encountered a 30-year-old Honduran national, identified as Nestor Rodriguez-Zelaya, after he illegally entered the United States.
When agents attempted to arrest Rodriguez-Zelaya, he became uncooperative and resisted. Agents were able to subdue him and place him under arrest.
Records checks revealed he was convicted in Duplin County, North Carolina in 2017 for indecent liberties with a child. Rodriguez-Zelaya was sentenced to two and a half years confinement and was removed from the United States.
As a convicted felon, he faces a charge of 8 USC § 1326 – re-entry after deportation, which carries a maximum sentence up to 20 years in prison.
All individuals arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol undergo record checks using biometrics to ensure those with a criminal history or gang affiliation are positively identified.
Border Patrol Marine Units Rescue Two from Rio Grande
3-Month-old Child Taken to Hospital after Near Drowning
The agents noticed that the infant submerged under water several times while the man struggled to stay afloat. | Photo by U.S. Customs and Border PatrolEagle Pass, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Eagle Pass Station marine unit rescued two undocumented immigrants on Thursday morning after they nearly drowned attempting to cross the Rio Grande River.
“Immigrants with children need to recognize the risk of drowning inherent to crossing the Rio Grande River and heed the warnings of our agents,” said Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Randy Davis. “I am concerned for the families who continue to ignore the warnings and risk their lives and the lives of their children.”
On Thursday, May 16, marine agents observed a man with an infant strapped to his chest on the Mexican side of the river preparing to cross.
The marine agents called out to the man warning him of the danger and persuaded him not to attempt to cross the river.
The man left the area, only to return a short time later with an inner tube, which he used to attempt to cross the river with the infant again strapped to his chest. Both were quickly swept away downriver as agents moved into position in their patrol boat to perform a rescue.
The agents noticed that the infant submerged under water several times while the man struggled to stay afloat. Agents quickly pulled both on board their vessel and transported them to shore.
The Eagle Pass Fire Department EMT personnel examined the infant at the scene. Concerns with the health of the 3-month-old boy and the possibility of water in his lungs prompted EMTs to take him to the local hospital.
The child was later flown to a children’s hospital in San Antonio for more intensive care.
The man, a 26-year-old Honduran national, was previously deported and removed from the United States in 2016. He faces a charge of 8 USC §1326 – reentry after deportation.
Border Patrol Apprehends 98 Illegal Aliens in Presidio, Texas
Presidio, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Presidio Station apprehended 98 illegal aliens. The illegal aliens are citizens from El Salvador, Honduras, and Belize.
Patrol Agent in Charge of the Presidio Station Derek Boyle said, “Transnational criminal organizations continue to use large groups to saturate and distract our agents. While these groups affect our ability to provide effective border security, it is through our community partnerships that we have been extremely successful in apprehending human trafficking and narcotics smuggling loads. I am proud of Presidio Station and Big Bend Sector agents, as well as the efforts and collaboration from our state, local and international partners.”
On Thursday, at approximately 6:30 a.m. the Presidio Station was informed of a large group of individuals attempting to make illegal entry into the U.S. within the city limits of Presidio, Texas.
Presidio agents responded to the last known location of the group and safely arrested 98 individuals without incident.The group was mostly made up of family units and unaccompanied alien children.
All 98 subjects will be charged and processed according to the applicable immigration laws. Big Bend Sector has already apprehended over 800 illegal aliens in the month of May.
Big Bend Sector Border Patrol agents, patrol 517 miles of the southwest border, an area that extends from Sierra Blanca, Texas to Sanderson, Texas. The Presidio Station area consists of the southern half of Presidio County, the third largest county in the state of Texas.
The station is responsible for 113.8 border miles between the U.S. and Mexico and 1,100 square miles of area responsibility. The U.S. Border Patrol is made up of over 19,000 brave men and women who courageously secure our nation’s borders.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Agents Save Lives Left in the River
Roma, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol Riverine agents patrolling the Rio Grande continue to save the lives of illegal aliens abandoned in the river by smugglers.
Early this morning, agents assigned to the Rio Grande City Border Patrol Riverine Unit observed a raft in the Rio Grande near Roma, Texas. The raft was set adrift by smugglers from the Mexican riverbank and immediately taken by the river’s current.
Agents reported the raft was in danger of capsizing due to being overloaded with 13 subjects and heading straight for the pillars underneath the Roma Port of Entry. Agents quickly intercepted the raft and escorted it to the U.S. Riverbank. Agents identified the 13 subjects as family units from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.
Hours later, the Riverine Unit observed another raft full of people illegally crossing the Rio Grande. As the agents responded to intercept the boat, the occupants of the boat jumped out and attempted to swim back to Mexico. One of the subjects immediately began to struggle to stay afloat. Agents immediately rushed to the drowning man and got him out of the water.
Border Patrol Warns Immigrants of Life-Threatening Risks of Crossing Rio Grande River
People crossing the Rio Grande are at the mercy of the unpredictable currents and deep waters. | Photo by U.S. Customs and Border PatrolDel Rio, Texas –The Del Rio U.S. Border Patrol Sector is issuing a warning to immigrants not to risk their lives and the lives of their children by attempting to cross the Rio Grande River.
There is an alarming trend taking place along the border in the Del Rio Sector of undocumented immigrants with small children crossing the Rio Grande River. Once the groups begin to cross, they quickly realize the danger and are now at the mercy of the unpredictable currents and deep waters of the river.
For the fiscal year 2019, which began Oct. 1, 2018, Border Patrol agents have rescued more than 380 undocumented immigrants, including small children.
“It’s disturbing what is taking place on our borders and witnessed by our Border Patrol agents every day,” says Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Randy Davis. “This trend is not without tragic consequences. Border Patrol agents are rescuing people, but have also had the grim task of recovering deceased bodies including children as young as 10-months-old from the Rio Grande River.”
It is imperative that immigrants wishing to enter the United States do so through a designated port of entry. Attempting to cross the Rio Grande River especially with small children is not worth the risk.
Children are drowning or are critically injured. In recent weeks, Border Patrol agents in Del Rio Sector have seen true tragedies and several near tragedies caused by immigrants who did not heed the warning. Do not risk your life and the lives of your children by attempting to cross the river.
On May 1, a raft carrying nine people capsized sending everyone on board into the water. Three people drowned including a 10-month-old boy and a 7-year-old boy. A 7-year-old girl is still missing.
Since Oct. 1, 2018, to date, there have been 10 water related deaths reported in the Del Rio Sector. This is a 57 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
On Feb. 18, Border Patrol agents pulled an unconscious 12-year-old boy from the river. The agents performed CPR on the boy and resuscitated him.
On May 14, a woman lashed her 1-year-old child to her back and entered the river on an inner tube unaware that her child was submerged under water as she struggled with the current. The mother and child were rescued by Border Patrol agents and taken to a local hospital.
Yesterday on May 16, Border Patrol agents rescued a man that was trying to cross the river with a 3-month-old boy strapped to his chest. As the man struggled to stay afloat, the child was under water, nearly drowned, and is now suffering from water in his lungs.
Border Patrol Agent Saves Four Illegal Aliens
Presidio, Texas – An agent assigned to the Presidio Border Patrol Station rescued two adult females and two children, ages 8 and 12, from the Rio Grande River near Presidio, Texas.
Chief Patrol Agent Hudak said, “The brave actions that our agent took to save these lives, demonstrates the compassion and care we have towards saving a human life. Thankfully four lives were saved without incident.”
On Monday, May 13, a Presidio Agent, while responding to a report of subjects attempting to illegally enter the U.S., observed four individuals in distress. The agent took immediate action and pulled all four from the water to safety.
The agent, a certified EMT, medically assessed the subjects and determined they did not sustain any injuries. The subjects, all citizens of Honduras, were transported to the Presidio Border Patrol Station for processing. The subjects did not require any further medical attention.
Big Bend Sector Border Patrol agents, patrol 517 miles of the southwest border, an area that extends from Sierra Blanca, Texas to Sanderson, Texas. The Presidio Station area consists of the southern half of Presidio County, the third largest county in the state of Texas.
The station is responsible for 113.8 border miles between the U.S. and Mexico and 1,100 square miles of area responsibility. The U.S. Border Patrol is made up of over 19,000 brave men and women who courageously secure our nation’s borders.
RGV Sector Border Patrol Agents Save Lives on the Rio Grande
Roma, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol Riverine agents patrolling the Rio Grande continue to save the lives of illegal aliens abandoned in the river by smugglers.
Early Thursday morning, agents assigned to the Rio Grande City Border Patrol Riverine Unit observed a raft in the Rio Grande near Roma, Texas. The raft was set adrift by smugglers from the Mexican riverbank and immediately taken by the river’s current.
Agents reported the raft was in danger of capsizing due to being overloaded with 13 subjects and heading straight for the pillars underneath the Roma Port of Entry. Agents quickly intercepted the raft and escorted it to the U.S. Riverbank. Agents identified the 13 subjects as family units from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.
Hours later, the Riverine Unit observed another raft full of people illegally crossing the river. As the agents responded, the occupants of the boat jumped out and attempted to swim back to Mexico. One of the subjects quickly began to struggle to stay afloat. Agents immediately rushed to the drowning man and removed him from the water.
That evening, Riverine Units encountered three rafts filled with people who were stranded in the middle of the Rio Grande south of Roma, Texas. Agents escorted the rafts to the U.S. riverbank and took 18 subjects into custody.
Prior to leaving the area, agents observed a fourth raft that was set adrift by smugglers from the Mexican riverbank. The raft was poorly inflated and overfilled with several individuals. Agents rushed to the raft before it capsized and took 17 subjects into custody.
DHS Volunteer Force to Assist Del Rio Border Patrol Sector during Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis
Del Rio, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents across Del Rio Sector are receiving assistance from fellow government employees within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to deal with a massive increase in family unit apprehensions.
“Family unit apprehensions in this sector are up over 754 percent compared to the previous fiscal year to date,” said Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Randy Davis. “The DHS volunteer force comes at a time when the extra help is needed and appreciated.”
The DHS volunteer force is comprised of government employees within the department and will be assigned to various stations throughout the sector.
They will serve in support roles such as administration, property management, and will assist in the care of those in custody.
In addition to the volunteer force, a number of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers and teams of Homeland Security Investigation Special Agents will be assisting Del Rio Sector agents with processing and investigations.
There have been 11,840 family unit apprehensions in the Del Rio Border Patrol Sector for Fiscal Year 2019 to date (April 30), which is a 754 percent increase compared to the Fiscal Year 2018 to date.
However, an estimated 6,000 people have crossed illegally through Del Rio Sector’s area of responsibility and have not been apprehended. This is due, in part, to the increase in family unit apprehensions, which requires more agents to process and care for those in custody.
With the overwhelming number of family units in custody, the DHS volunteer force will work to alleviate some of the workload allowing more Border Patrol agents to return to enforcement operations along the border.
Child Smuggler Arrested at Hidalgo International Bridge
May 16, 2019
Hidalgo, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Hidalgo International Bridge arrested a woman from McAllen, Texas in connection with a failed child smuggling attempt involving a five-year-old boy.
“CBP Field Operations takes smuggling of persons very seriously,” said Port Director Sylvia Briones, Port of Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas. “People must realize that there are consequences for this type of illicit activity, especially when they involve children.”
On May 15, 2019, a 26-year-old female United States citizen arrived at the Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge pedestrian walkway with a boy she claimed as her U.S. citizen child.
The adult woman presented a State of Texas issued identification card for herself along with a U.S. birth certificate for both her and the young boy.
A CBP officer referred them to secondary for further inspection and it was there that officers discovered that there was no relationship between the two travelers.
Officers further determined that the document presented for the child was not his and he was, in fact, a citizen of Mexico without valid documents to legally enter or reside in the United States.
CBP OFO arrested the woman and presented her before a U.S. federal magistrate for alleged violation of U.S. immigration law.
CBP Officers Seize Heroin Valued More Than $1 Million at the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge
Laredo, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers at the Laredo Port of Entry intercepted a significant narcotic load with an estimated street value of more than $1 million in one enforcement action.
“I congratulate our frontline officers for their firm commitment to carry out the CBP mission and protect the public from illegal narcotics,” said Port Director Albert Flores, Laredo Port of Entry.
The seizure occurred on Tuesday, May 14 at the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge when a CBP officer referred a 2006 Ford pickup driven by a 29-year-old Mexican male citizen who resides in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico for a secondary examination.
During a canine and non-intrusive imaging system inspection, CBP officers discovered 27 packages containing a total of 48 pounds of alleged heroin within the vehicle.
The narcotics have an estimated street value of $1,109,000. CBP officers seized the narcotics and the vehicle.
The driver was arrested and the case was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) special agents for further investigation.
Border Patrol Agents Rescue Over 100 People Locked in a Trailer
Laredo, Texas – Laredo West Border Patrol agents assigned to the U.S. Border Patrol Immigration Checkpoint located on U.S. Hwy 83 northwest of Laredo, Texas encountered a semi-trailer full of people trying to enter the United States illegally.
The incident occurred on May 10, 2019 at 12:15 a.m., when agents who were working checkpoint operations encountered a black semi-truck with a white trailer.
While interviewing the driver, who claimed to have no identification, a canine alerted to the odors of concealed humans and/or narcotics within the trailer.
The tractor-trailer was referred to the secondary inspection area where the driver absconded through the passenger door and ran into an adjacent field.
Agents proceeded to open the trailer and discovered a total of 120 people. Although all individuals appeared to be in good health, they were evaluated by Border Patrol Emergency Medical Technicians.
Fortunately for all individuals found inside the trailer, the weather was unseasonably cool and conditions inside the trailer were bearable. Nonetheless, it would have been impossible for the people to escape the trailer as it could not be opened from the inside.
The individuals apprehended in the trailer consisted of 11 juveniles from Honduras and Guatemala along with 109 adults both male and females from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Ecuador and Mexico.
The Laredo Sector Border Patrol continues to warn against the dangers of people crossing illegally into the United States through dangerous environmental conditions.
As part of our humanitarian, binational strategy called the Border Safety Initiative, the Laredo Sector Border Patrol continues to warn people of the dangers of crossing into the United States illegally.
In the majority of cases, those who try to enter our country illegally are subjected to dangerous conditions that put their lives at risk.
Mateo Simpson Named Laredo Sector Border Patrol Youth of the Year
Laredo, Texas – Mateo Simpson, a senior at United High School, was selected as the Laredo Sector Border Patrol Youth of the Year for 2018 – 2019.
Laredo Sector Border Patrol Acting Assistant Chief Patrol Agent Jose A. Martinez made the announcement at the International Bank of Commerce (IBC) annex in Laredo, Texas on Tuesday night, May 14.
Mateo, the son of Mr. & Mrs. Robert Simpson, was accepted to several military academies to include: the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Air Force Academy.He chose to attend the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
Simpson plans to pursue a degree in aeronautical engineering and design aircrafts for the military.
During his high school years, he was a member of the National Honor Society, the National Piano Guild and a student-athlete in numerous sports.
The Youth of the Year ceremony culminates the Youth of the Month program that recognizes eleven students each month during the academic year from all Laredo area high schools.
Students are selected for the honor based on academic achievement, community involvement and demonstration of their fortitude to succeed.
The Youth of the Year was established by Border Patrol as an effort to recognize the youth for their outstanding achievements.
Program partners, such as IBC, play an integral role in the Border Patrol Youth of the Month program, as they reflect the commitment and dedication in supporting education by highlighting Laredo’s young leaders.
Community partner IBC hosted the event, and other community partners provided Mateo with various awards and gifts in honor of his selection as Youth of the Year. Dr. Sara Campos and Dr. Marcus Hinojosa each donated a $1,000 scholarship.
The Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club and Area Health Education Center (AHEC) each gave $500 scholarships. Chick-fil-A presented a $500 Visa Gift Card, $100 Chick Fil-A gift card, and a plaque. McDonald’s presented a gift basket that included a gift card.
Sames Auto Arena presented Mateo with tickets to see Anuel AA in concert, and Emperor Garden provided an HP laptop. Ashley Furniture Homestore donated a $200 Visa Prepaid Card and a Tempur-Pedic pillow, L&F Distributors gave four cases of Nestle products. Rock Fitness Gym gave a one-year free membership, Laser Carwash gave 20 free carwashes, and Awardmasterz donated a beautiful Texas-shaped plaque that was presented at the ceremony.
U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar presented him with a Congressional Certificate of Recognition with a sponsored trip to Washington, D.C. for him and his family. The honoree will also have the opportunity to receive a tour of the Texas State Capitol, where he will be presented on the House floor with State Representative Richard Raymond.
Senator Ted Cruz, Texas Senator Judith Zaffirini, and State Representative Tracy O. King each gave him a framed certificate recognizing him as the Youth of the Year.
This year marks the 31st anniversary of participation by the Laredo Sector Border Patrol.
Border Patrol Rescues Family Stranded in the Rio Grande River
Del Rio, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents rescued several undocumented immigrants stranded in the Rio Grande River.
“In their attempt to enter the United States, immigrants often do not measure the risks of using improvised flotation devices in the turbulent waters of the Rio Grande,” remarked Randy Davis the Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent, “I am proud of our agents and the lifesaving work they do every day.”
On May 13, agents from the Del Rio Station, conducting line watch and marine operations along the Rio Grande River, rescued several individuals stranded on an island.
The people were attempting to enter the United States in an inflated child’s pool. As the marine agents approached the location they observed a family unit stranded on a small outcrop in the middle of the river.
The agents quickly maneuvered their vessel and pulled the family, consisting of one adult and three children, from the island and brought them safely to dry land.
No injuries were sustained during the incident and all were transported to the Del Rio Station for processing, per CBP guidelines.
Border Patrol Agents Apprehend 10 Undocumented Immigrants
Two Mexican Nationals Arrested for Human Smuggling
Del Rio, Texas – The Del Rio Sector Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC) arrested two suspected smugglers and 10 undocumented immigrants after they crossed the Rio Grande River Friday afternoon.
“Smugglers have no regard for human safety in pursuit of profits,” said Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Randy Davis. “We will work with our investigative partners to prosecute any individual or criminal organization responsible for human smuggling in the Del Rio Sector.”
On May 10, the BORTAC unit was conducting surveillance of a section of river within the Brackettville Station area of responsibility that has seen an increase in smuggling activity and water rescues since early April.
At about noon, BORTAC agents witnessed two men bring 10 people across the river, to the U.S. side, in an inflatable pool. Once they made landfall the agents apprehended the group, along with the two smugglers, who attempted to abscond.
The group were all undocumented immigrants from Honduras including minor children.
Since April 12, Brackettville Border Patrol agents have seen an increased in illegal border crossings of family units and have rescued 187 undocumented immigrants from the Rio Grande River.
The two suspected smugglers, both Mexican nationals, face charges of 8 USC § 1324 – alien smuggling, which carries a maximum 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.
Border Patrol Agent Assaulted Near Eagle Pass
Mexican National Previously Deported
Eagle Pass, Texas – An agent from the Eagle Pass South Station was assaulted while effecting the arrest of a Mexican man illegally present in the United States.
“Acts of violence against our agents will not be tolerated,” said Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Randy Davis. “This incident is an example of the threats faced by U.S. Border Patrol agents as they work to secure the border.”
On May 12, Border Patrol agents were tracking a group of suspected illegal aliens near the immigration checkpoint on Highway 57. As agents attempted to apprehend the suspected illegal aliens, a man in the group became combative and struck an agent.
The agent was able to subdue the man and placed him under arrest after a brief struggle. The man was taken to a local hospital for minor injuries. The agent was not seriously injured and did not request medical attention.
The man, a 44-year-old Mexican national, has been arrested numerous times by U.S. Immigration officials and was deported from the United States in 2000.
Records checks revealed an extensive criminal history in the United States, including an aggravated felony conviction in 1998 on multiple counts of transporting and selling narcotics, for which he was sentenced to four years in prison.
The man faces a charge of 18 USC § 111 – assault on a federal officer – and 8 USC § 1326 – reentry after deportation, which both carry a maximum sentence of 20 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.
Border Patrol Seizes More Than $2M Worth of Methamphetamine in the Rio Grande Valley
Sarita, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents disrupted a narcotic smuggling attempt resulting in the seizure of methamphetamine.
Thursday night, Kingsville agents working at the Javier Vega Jr. Border Patrol Checkpoint referred a passenger vehicle to the secondary inspection area after a Border Patrol K-9 alerted. During the investigation, agents located over 100 bundles of methamphetamine weighing nearly 70 pounds, worth more than 2.2 million dollars.
Agents arrested the driver and passenger. Border Patrol turned the investigation over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Border Patrol Apprehends 251 Illegal Aliens in Presidio, Texas
A group of aliens in Presidio. | Photo by U.S. Customs and Border ProtectionPresidio, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Presidio Station apprehended 251 illegal aliens in the last four days, from Thursday to Sunday. The illegal aliens are citizens from El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala.
Big Bend Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew Hudak said, “The significant number of arrests by Presidio Station agents is evidence that the dramatic increase in illegal entries along the southern border is impacting us locally.”
Chief Hudak added, “The volume of arrests challenges our ability to effectively patrol the border while our agents are consumed by caring for persons in our custody. I commend our agents for their professionalism and dedication in the face of these challenges.”
On Thursday, at approximately 11:30 p.m. the Presidio Station was informed of a large group of individuals attempting make illegal entry into the U.S. within the city limits of Presidio, Texas.
Presidio agents responded to the last known location of the group and safely arrested 56 individuals without incident. On Friday morning, Presidio agents arrested an additional group of 19 individuals illegally present in the U.S.
Between Saturday and Sunday the agents arrested an additional 176 individuals illegally present in the U.S.
All 251 subjects will be charged and processed according to the applicable immigration laws. Big Bend Sector has apprehended over 648 illegal aliens in the first 13 days of May. More than half of the illegal aliens have been apprehended by agents assigned to the Presidio Station.
Big Bend Sector Border Patrol agents, patrol 517 miles of the southwest border, an area that extends from Sierra Blanca, Texas to Sanderson, Texas. The Presidio Station area consists of the southern half of Presidio County, the third largest county in the state of Texas.
The station is responsible for 113.8 border miles between the U.S. and Mexico and 1,100 square miles of area of responsibility. The U.S. Border Patrol is made up of over 19,000 brave men and women who courageously secure our nation’s borders. Help us secure our homeland, find out more at cbp.gov/careers.
CBP Officers At El Paso Port Revive Unresponsive Toddler
El Paso, Texas – The quick actions of a team of CBP officers helped save the life of young girl Saturday night. The child was unresponsive when CBP officers first encountered her at the El Paso port of entry.
“A possible Mother’s Day weekend tragedy was averted by the quick and decisive actions of CBP officers,” said CBP El Paso port director Beverly Good. “CBP officers will often act as first responders when medical emergencies arise at our border ports of entry.”
CBP officers at the Ysleta crossing were conducting an enforcement operation in the traffic queue before the primary inspection booths when they encountered a family requesting medical help for their U.S. citizen two-year-old child.
The family said the young girl was unresponsive due to high fever. CBP officers requested backup and remained with the family until help arrived.
An EMT certified CBP officer arrived and administered first aid and was able to restore the child to normal breathing before EMS arrived.
EMS transported the girl to El Paso Children’s Hospital. CBP officers learned that the child was diagnosed with Flu-B, prescribed medication and released in stable condition.
Eagle Pass Border Patrol Agents Arrest Two Sex Offenders
Honduran Nationals Previously Deported
Eagle Pass, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Eagle Pass Station arrested two previously deported convicted sex offenders for illegally entering the United States over two days.
“Our agents remain vigilant and committed to safeguarding our communities,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Raul L. Ortiz. “Convicted criminal aliens often try to avoid detection by exploiting the current immigrant crisis at our borders to illegally enter our country, and in many cases will return to the communities where they perpetrated their crimes.”
On May 7, Border Patrol agents from the Eagle Pass Station arrested a 35-year-old Honduran man for illegally entering the United States.
Records checks performed during processing revealed he was convicted in Harrisonburg, Virginia in 2008 on four counts of sexual crimes against a child. The man was sentenced to five years confinement and was deported from the United States in April 2010.
In an unrelated incident on May 8, agents arrested a 34-year-old Honduran man for illegally entering the United States. Records checks revealed he was convicted in Brookhaven, Georgia in 2016 for child molestation. The man was sentenced to 18 months confinement and was deported from the United States in 2018.
Both men face a charge of 8 USC § 1326 – re-entry after deportation, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
All individuals arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol undergo record checks using biometrics to ensure those with criminal history or gang affiliation are positively identified.
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.
Laredo Port of Entry CBP Officers Intercept Methamphetamine Worth Over $1 Million
Packages containing 50 pounds of methamphetamine seized by CBP officers at Laredo Port of Entry. | Photo by U.S. Customs and Border ProtectionLaredo, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers this weekend intercepted a noteworthy amount of hard narcotics with an estimated street value of more than $1 million in one enforcement action at the Gateway to the Americas International Bridge.
“Our CBP officers’ knowledge of concealment methods and the technology they utilize on a daily basis played a key role in the discovery,” said Port Director Albert Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “I congratulate our officers for their dedication which has prevented these dangerous narcotics from entering our country.”
The seizure occurred on Saturday, May 4 at the Gateway to the Americas International Bridge when a CBP officer referred a 2006 Volkswagen Bora driven by a 23-year-old male, Mexican citizen from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico for a secondary examination.
Following a canine and non-intrusive imaging system inspection, CBP officers discovered a total of 50 pounds of alleged crystal methamphetamine.
The narcotics have an estimated street value of $1,000,888. CBP officers seized the narcotics and the vehicle.
The driver was arrested and the case was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) special agents for further investigation.
Del Rio Sector Border Patrol Agents Rescue Two from Rio Grande
Mother, Child Saved After Nearly Drowning
Eagle Pass, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents pulled a Honduran woman and her 9-month-old child from the Rio Grande River, Tuesday afternoon.
At approximately 3:50 pm, agents with the Eagle Pass Station’s Marine Unit on patrol near the Port of Entry, noticed several people on the Mexican side of the riverbank, including a woman with a child.
The woman, holding an inner tube and the small child, appeared reluctant to get into the water when an unidentified adult male pushed her and the child into river.
The two were quickly swept downstream as the woman desperately tried to keep the child’s head above water. The agents reacted quickly in their patrol boat and observed both momentarily submerging before they could be pulled out of the water.
The woman and the child did not suffer injury and were both evaluated by Eagle Pass Fire Department EMS on scene. Mexican authorities were notified and informed about the subject who was seen pushing the woman and child into the river.
“Our agents are saving lives on a daily basis as more immigrants are risking their safety attempting to illegally enter our country,” said Del Rio Chief Patrol Agent Raul L. Ortiz. “I am proud of the work our agents are doing every day, recognizing dangerous situations and reacting quickly to prevent loss of life.”
An increase in water release from Amistad Dam continues to create dangerous conditions for anyone attempting to cross the Rio Grande River, and for agents operating on or near the river. The Rio Grande River is expected to remain near flood stage for the next 12 days.
CBP Field Operations Seizes Methamphetamine Worth Nearly $2 Million at Hidalgo International Bridge
Hidalgo, Texas — Officers with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Hidalgo International Bridge detected and seized $1,850,000 worth of methamphetamine that was discovered in a vehicle arriving from Mexico.
“Our officers’ outstanding tenacity and perseverance was once again demonstrated with this great interception of hard narcotics,” said Port Director Sylvia Briones, Hidalgo/Pharr/ Anzalduas Port of Entry. ”Working as a team and utilizing all available tools and resources enables our officers to succeed in this battle.”
CBP officers assigned to the Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge on May 7 referred a 20-year-old man from Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico and the silver Nissan Juke he was driving for further inspection.
During the secondary inspection, which included the assistance of a canine team, officers discovered 48 packages of alleged methamphetamine that were concealed within the vehicle. The total weight of the drugs is 92.51 pounds (41.96 kg).
CBP OFO seized the alleged methamphetamine along with the vehicle and arrested the Reynosa resident.
The case remains under investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents.
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