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 14 – August 21, 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. 14 – Aug. 21, 2018 •
Texas Border Reported Arrests/Apprehensions
Texas Border Reported Arrests/Apprehensions from the following counties;
• Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Bangladesh and United States Citizens Weekly Total: 234+ (“+”: see note below)
Of those above there were…
• 7 U.S. Citizens (USC)
• 5 MS-13 Member(s)
• 5 Convicted Murderer(s)
• 8 Convicted Child Sex Offender(s) (including 1 child rapist)
• 31 Rescue(s)
• 9+ Children/Unaccompanied Children
Note: +; U.S. Customs and Border Patrol did not list exact 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• 3,591.32 lbs.
• $14,142,397 Million
• 5 lbs.
• $148,000
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Border Patrol Agents Arrest Deported Murderer and Convicted Sex Offender
Release Date: August 21, 2018
Agents working near the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA) watched three subjects running west of BOTA, then into Chamizal Park. An agent video surveillance team picked them up on camera walking through the park. Agents approached them and they quickly bolted away.
Two subjects were caught after a brief foot pursuit, while the remaining subject ran south back to Mexico. The two men in custody were transported to the Paso Del Norte Texas Processing Center (PDT) for further processing.
Agents ran queries on them through national immigration and criminal databases, and it was determined that one of the men, identified as 42-year-old Jose Santos Diaz-Hernandez from El Salvador, was revealed to have an immigration and criminal history.
Records showed that Jose Santos Diaz-Hernandez had been arrested in Houston in 2002 by the Houston Police Department on charges of “Murder”.
Diaz-Hernandez was sentenced to 10 years in prison, but he spent a total of seven years prior to his release and deportation in August-2008. Diaz Hernandez is again facing prosecution for “Reinstatement of Prior Order of Removal”, and was booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility.
During the same time period, Agents also encountered a convicted sex offender when a 41-year old Mexican National was apprehended.
That arrest was the result of camera operators seeing a group of people entering the United States illegally, west of the Bridge of the Americas.
When agents responded to intercept the group, one male subject broke away from the group and ran west. Agents quickly caught up to him and made the arrest. The man was identified as Magdaleno Elizalde-Alonso, from Mexico.
After being interviewed by Agents, Elizalde was transported to a Border Patrol station for processing. He was fingerprinted and his biometric information was entered into several immigration and criminal databases.
In just a few minutes, agents found that he had been previously deported, and had been convicted on charges including “Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault” and “Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault of a Child” in Chicago, Illinois. Those prior convictions led to a six-year prison term after his arrest by officers from the Chicago Police Department in November, 1998.
Elizalde will be turned over to the El Paso County Detention Facility pending criminal prosecution for a reinstatement of prior order-of-removal.
These arrests are indicative of the vigilance and determination that is carried out on a daily basis by U.S. Border Patrol Agents in the furtherance of stopping dangerous criminals from entering area communities.
Border Patrol seizes nearly 1,000 pounds of marijuana over the weekend in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 21, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents throughout the Rio Grande Valley Sector disrupted five separate narcotic smuggling attempts resulting in the seizure of over $770K worth of marijuana.
On Friday, a Border Patrol K-9 Handler and K-9 partner responded to a report of smuggling activity near Brownsville, Texas. A search of the area resulted in the discovery of a single bundle of marijuana. The 45-pound bundle is worth an estimated $36K.
On Saturday, agents working near Rio Grande City observed a vehicle departing the Rio Grande at a high rate of speed.
Mobile units responded and located the vehicle abandoned in a nearby neighborhood. Inside the vehicle, agents discovered over 350 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $284K.
That same day, agents observed several subjects load a Dodge Caravan with bundles of narcotics near Rio Grande City. Mobile units and a helicopter from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) responded and located the vehicle heading back toward the Rio Grande.
Agents observed the driver and several individuals swim back to Mexico. Inside, agents discovered six bundles of marijuana weighing over 440 pounds worth an estimated $350K.
Yesterday, Fort Brown agents responded to a report of several individuals carrying bundles of marijuana near Brownsville, Texas.
Agents and DPS Troopers responded to the area, arrested three Mexican nationals, and seized three bundles of marijuana. The marijuana weighed nearly 130 pounds and is worth an estimated $102K.
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 Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Border Patrol Disrupts Smuggling Attempt in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 21, 2018
FALFURRIAS, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents discovered eight illegal aliens in a failed smuggling attempt at the Falfurrias checkpoint.
Yesterday, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Falfurrias Checkpoint referred a Ford F250 pick-up truck to the secondary inspection area after a Border Patrol K-9 alerted.
Through the investigation, agents discovered eight illegal aliens concealed. During processing, agents identified one of the illegal aliens as a 17 year-old unaccompanied child and one of the adults as an MS-13 gang member.
Agents arrested the United States citizen driver and referred the case for prosecution.
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
All people apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks utilizing multiple databases. Photo by CBP.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 1-866-511-8727.
Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents Arrest Convicted Sex Offender
Release Date: August 20, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents assigned to the Hebbronville Station on Aug. 19 arrested an illegal alien from Mexico who was a convicted sex offender.
During the late-night hours, agents working near Hebbronville, Texas apprehended three subjects. While the individuals were being processed, records checks revealed one of the individuals had a conviction in Texas for Sexual Assault of Child and Aggravated Kidnapping. After being incarcerated for 18 years, the subject was removed in June of this year.
The subject’s Prior Order of Deportation will be reinstated and the Laredo Sector Prosecutions office will seek prosecution for violation of Re-entry of an Aggravated Felon.
“The arrest of this criminal alien and preventing him from committing another heinous crime is just another example that illustrates how the United States Border Patrol continually strives to keep our citizens safe,” said Laredo Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens.
To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994.
Three deceased subjects discovered in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 20, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents encountered three deceased individuals in two separate incidents.
On Friday, agents assigned to the Weslaco station discovered a deceased individual in a water basin near Mercedes, Texas. The Mercedes Fire Department responded and extracted the body from the water. A Justice of the Peace pronounced the subject deceased. A forensics pathologist took custody of the decedent.
On Sunday just after midnight, McAllen agents conducting operations near La Joya, Texas, encountered a large group of illegal aliens. Upon making contact with the group, several of the subjects jumped into a canal in an attempt to evade apprehension.
Agents observed two subjects that had not made it to the opposite side of the canal. Agents, along with the La Joya Fire Department, attempted to locate and rescue the pair.
During daylight hours, the La Joya Fire Department discovered the two subjects, who were later declared deceased by a Justice of the Peace. The Hidalgo County Morgue took custody of the decedents.
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.
Eagle Pass CBP Officers Seize 1,500 lbs of Pot from Tractor-Trailer
Release Date: August 20, 2018
EAGLE PASS, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized more $300,000 worth of marijuana at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry.
“Smugglers go to great lengths to get their illicit products into the U.S.,” said Port Director Paul Del Rincon, Eagle Pass Port of Entry. “The training, experience and dedication of our frontline CBP officers has prevented yet another load of contraband from reaching our communities.”
On Aug. 15, CBP officers at Camino Real International Bridge Import Lot inspected a 2012 Kenworth tractor, pulling a trailer loaded with tile, as it arrived from Mexico.
During inspection, officers discovered 128 bundles of suspected marijuana among the boxes of tile. Officers seized a total of 1,547 pounds of alleged marijuana, worth an estimated $309,525.
The Office of Field Operations is the primary organization within U.S. Customs and Border Protection tasked with an anti-terrorism mission at our nation’s ports.
CBP officers screen all people, vehicles and goods entering the United States while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel.
Their mission also includes carrying out border-related duties, including narcotics interdiction, enforcing immigration and trade laws, and protecting the nation’s food supply and agriculture industry from pests and diseases.
Border Patrol Agents Arrest 8 Illegal Aliens at Stash House
Release Date: August 19, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Laredo South Station in partnership with the Laredo Police Department discovered eight illegal aliens at a stash house.
The incident transpired shortly after 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 18 after both agencies received information of illegal activity at an apartment complex located on Alicante Drive.
Upon arriving at the scene, agents and officers discovered eight illegal aliens and arrested a United States citizen for harboring the illegal aliens.
All individuals were placed under arrest and the illegal aliens were determined to be from the Dominican Republic. All individuals were found to be in good health and 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 1-800-343-1994.
Laredo Sector Border Patrol and Jim Hogg County Sheriff’s Office Rescue Illegal Alien in Distress
Release Date: August 17, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Hebbronville Station on Aug. 17 received a transferred 911 call from the Jim Hogg County Sheriff’s Office concerning a lost subject. The man stated he was lost in the brush and without food or water.
In a coordinated effort, deputies and agents began their attempt to locate the lost individual. After conducting a search south of Hebbronville, Texas near Farm to Market (FM) 1017, deputies found the man.
The subject was then transported to the Hebbronville Border Patrol Station where an Emergency Medical Technician determined the man was in need of further medical attention. The subject, a national of El Salvador, was subsequently taken to an area hospital.
The Laredo Sector Border Patrol will continue to warn against the dangers of people crossing illegally into the United States through dangerous environmental conditions.
Our Border Safety Initiative (BSI) is a humanitarian, bi-national strategy designed to reduce illegal alien deaths, educate and inform potential illegal aliens of the dangers and hazards of crossing the border illegally, and to respond to those who are in life-threatening situations.
To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994.
CBP Officers at the Laredo Port of Entry Seize More Than $600K in Cocaine
Release Date: August 17, 2018
Packages containing 79 pounds of cocaine seized by CBP officers at Juarez-Lincoln Bridge. Photo by CBP.LAREDO, TEXAS – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers at the Laredo Port of Entry recently seized over $600,000 in cocaine in one enforcement action.
“This seizure demonstrates a great example of teamwork from our CBP officers,” 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 Thursday, Aug. 16 at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge when a CBP officer referred a 2008 Honda Odyssey driven by a 36-year-old male Mexican citizen from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico 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 33 packages containing a total of 79.32 pounds of alleged cocaine. The narcotics have an estimated street value of $611,660.
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.
CBP Officers at Laredo Port of Entry This Week Apprehend North Texas Man with Warrant for Murder
Release Date: August 17, 2018
Pedestrian processing area, Gateway to the Americas Bridge. Photo by CBP.LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Field Operations officers at the Laredo Port of Entry on Thursday apprehended a North Texas man who had turned himself in to face a pending felony warrant on a murder charge.
“Our frontline officers have a sworn duty to uphold our border security mission and the processing and identity verification of a man with an outstanding murder charge exemplifies the agency’s dedication to that mission,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry.
The apprehension occurred on Thursday, Aug. 16 at the Gateway to the Americas Bridge.
CBP officers conducted a primary examination on a male pedestrian arriving from Mexico and referred him to secondary for further inspection due to a possible match to an outstanding warrant.
CBP officers conducted a fingerprint check and utilizing national law enforcement databases confirmed his identity as 25-year-old Eduardo Garcia, a U.S. citizen wanted by the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office on an outstanding felony warrant for 1st degree murder. Garcia was transported to Webb County Jail pending extradition proceedings, warrant adjudication.
Charges and allegations contained in criminal complaints are merely accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
For more information about CBP, please consult the following link.
Smuggler Attempts to Evade Checkpoint Agents in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 17, 2018
FALFURRIAS, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents stop a human smuggling attempt after the driver refused to stop for inspection.
Early this morning, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Falfurrias Checkpoint referred a Buick Le Sabre for a secondary inspection after a Border Patrol K-9 alerted to the vehicle.
As agents directed the driver to the inspection area, the driver refused to comply and accelerated at a high rate of speed away from the checkpoint. Agents pursued the fleeing vehicle, conducted a traffic stop along Highway 281 and arrested both the driver and front passenger.
A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of two illegal aliens concealed inside. Agents referred this case for prosecution.
Operation Big Rig is a call to action for the community to get involved and call 911 if they see or are aware of smuggling or suspicious activity, “They’re humans, not cargo.”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Two deceased discovered by agents in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 17, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents encountered two deceased individuals in separate incidents.
Agents assigned to the Corpus Christi station responded to a call from a concerned citizen regarding a deceased individual that was seen off of Highway 77 and Old Refugio Road south of Victoria, Texas. Along with the Victoria County Sheriff’s Office, agents located the subject. A Justice of the Peace pronounced the subject deceased and the decedent was turned over to a Pathologist office.
Weslaco agents conducting operations near Hidalgo, Texas discovered a deceased subject on the U.S. riverbank of the Rio Grande. The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office and the Hidalgo Fire Department were contacted to retrieve 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.
Criminal Alien Encounters Continue in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 17, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents throughout the Rio Grande Valley arrested several criminals over the past few days.
On Monday morning, McAllen agents arrested a Mexican national as he illegally entered the United States near Hidalgo, Texas. During processing, it was revealed the man had an outstanding warrant from the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office for sexual assault of a child.
That same day, agents arrested a Salvadoran national traveling with his 2 year-old son near Hidalgo, Texas. Record checks confirmed the man is a member of the notoriously violent Mara Salvatrucha gang, also known as MS-13.
Later that day, Kingsville agents arrested a United States citizen after a failed human smuggling attempt at the Sarita checkpoint. During the investigation, agents discovered the smuggled alien was a Honduran national who is a member of MS-13.
As the day continued, agents encountered three Salvadoran men in separate incidents. During processing, all three men were confirmed MS-13 gang members.
On Tuesday, Falfurrias agents apprehended a Mexican national as he attempted to circumvent the checkpoint. During processing, it was revealed the man was wanted in Mexico for homicide.
On Wednesday, agents working at the Falfurrias checkpoint arrested a United States citizen after a failed marijuana smuggling attempt. Record checks revealed a previous conviction in Hidalgo County for capital murder by terror threat with an eight-year prison sentence.
Early this morning, agents assigned to the Falfurrias Checkpoint arrested a Mexican man after a failed smuggling attempt. Record checks revealed a previous arrest by the Mattawa, Washington Police Department for rape of a child.
The man was convicted and sentenced to 9 months confinement. All subjects will be processed accordingly.
The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Rescue Efforts continue in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 17, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents continue to encounter illegal aliens in distress throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
On Monday afternoon, the Brooks County Sheriff’s Office contacted the Falfurrias Border Patrol station regarding an emergency call from a man who was lost after being abandoned by smugglers.
The man stated he was traveling with another person and both were in need of assistance. The Border Patrol’s Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) unit responded and located the two men.
That same evening, Weslaco agents responded to a 911 emergency call regarding a Guatemalan family who was abandoned after they were smuggled into the United States. Agents searched the last known GPS coordinates and located the mother and her four children, the youngest being 6 months-old.
The following day, BORSTAR agents in Brooks County rescued two distressed individuals after they were left behind in the vast ranch lands. Both were offered basic medical attention and transported to the Falfurrias Border Patrol Station.
This morning, Falfurrias agents and an Air and Marine Operations asset rescued a Guatemalan man near Encino, Texas after he placed an emergency call requesting assistance.
All subjects will be processed accordingly.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
BORSTAR extracts vehicle after “Splash Down” in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 17, 2018
BORSTAR agents retrieve vehicle after splash down. Photo by CBP.FRONTON, Texas – The Rio Grande Valley Sector’s Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) unit extracted a vehicle intentionally driven into the Rio Grande by a smuggler.
On Monday, agents working near Fronton, Texas, responded to a report of a vehicle involved in a narcotic smuggling attempt.
Agents located the vehicle and the driver immediately returned to the Rio Grande and drove the SUV into the river.
Today, BORSTAR operators organized a recovery effort to extract the SUV from the river. Operators found the submerged vehicle and successfully retrieved it.
Border Patrol agents assigned to the Rio Grande City station’s riverine unit also assisted in the effort.
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 and Air and Marine agents team up to seize marijuana in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 17, 2018
Border Patrol and Air and Marine agents seize 500 pounds of marijuana. Photo by CBP.LA ROSITA, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Rio Grande City station thwarted a narcotic smuggling attempt just after midnight.
Agents working near La Rosita, Texas, observed several subjects near the riverbank of the Rio Grande. Agents responded to the area and encountered an abandoned Ford Explorer loaded with marijuana.
With the assistance of an Air and Marine Operations asset, agents conducted a thorough search of the area and observed approximately 10 subjects on the Mexican side directly across the loaded vehicle.
Inside the vehicle, agents discovered nearly 500 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $385,000.00.
The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and report suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Eagle Pass Border Patrol Agents Rescue Family of Three from Rio Grande River
Release Date: August 16, 2018
Texas National Guard Camera Operator Alerts Agents of Family in Distress
EAGLE PASS, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents rescued a man and his two children as they attempted to cross the swift-flowing Rio Grande River Wednesday.
“This rescue serves as reminder of the dangers faced by those who attempt to illegally cross the border,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez. “If not for the vigilance of our Texas National Guard partners and the quick response by our Border Patrol agents, this incident could have ended tragically with the loss of life of two small children and their father.”
On Aug. 15, Texas National Guard personnel operating closed circuit surveillance camera systems observed four individuals attempting to cross the river from Mexico. One of the individuals, believed to be the guide or smuggler, returned to Mexico leaving two small children stranded in the middle of the river on an inner tube.
The rapid current quickly carried the children downstream away from the riverbank. Border Patrol marine agents patrolling nearby in a CBP boat quickly responded, lifted the two children out of the water, and brought them aboard.
The children’s father, swept away and struggling with the current, was clinging to debris in a desperate attempt to keep his head above water. The agents repositioned their boat, moved in, and pulled the man out of the water.
The man and his two daughters, all citizens of El Salvador, were brought ashore and did not request or require medical attention. The family was transported to the Eagle Pass South Station where they were processed per CBP guidelines.
Since April 2018, the U.S. Army National Guard deployed to the Southwest border as part of “Operation Guardian Support” providing multi-faceted support to U.S. Border Patrol operations.
The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West, South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.
Multiple Rescues in Big Bend Sector
Release Date: August 16, 2018
MARFA, Texas – Customs and Border Protection personnel and county Emergency Medical Service (EMS) units in west Texas worked together to conduct multiple rescue operations in the Big Bend Sector during a four-day stretch in August.
On August 7, Fort Stockton Border Patrol Agents rescued three illegal aliens near Highway 285, south of Fort Stockton, TX. The three Mexican Nationals had run out of food and not eaten in three days. The subjects refused medical attention.
The following day, Sierra Blanca Border Patrol Agents and El Paso BORSTAR (Border Patrol’s Search Trauma and Rescue Unit) located a severely dehydrated woman from Guatemala, south of Interstate 10.
A CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO) Air Interdiction Agent transported the woman by helicopter to a waiting Fort Hancock EMS crew. The woman was transported to El Paso for treatment.
USBP and BORSTAR agents’ rescue in the Big Bend sector. Photo by CBP.On August 9, Presidio Border Patrol Agents and an AMO rotary-wing crew apprehended 14 illegal aliens in Big Bend Ranch State Park, northeast of Presidio.
One of the subjects, a male from Guatemala, was severely dehydrated and lost consciousness. The AMO helicopter crew transported the subject from the remote area to a waiting Border Patrol Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
The subject was then transported and turned over to Presidio County EMS who transported him on to Big Bend Regional Medical Center in Alpine, TX for treatment.
Finally, on August 10, Van Horn Border Patrol Agents rescued a man from Ecuador who was left behind in the desert by his group while trying to enter the country illegally. He was transported by Border Patrol to the Culberson County Hospital for treatment.
“This is a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal border crossings as well as the demanding and dangerous jobs that our agents perform on a daily basis,” said Chief Patrol Agent Robert L. Boatright. “It also speaks positively about our strong working relationships with our state and local partners which ultimately help save lives,” he added.
Big Bend Sector Border Patrol agents operate four Immigration Checkpoints and patrol 510 miles of the southwest border between Sierra Blanca and Sanderson, Texas.
Border Patrol Agents and Laredo Police Department Rescue Illegal Aliens Held Against Their Will
Release Date: August 15, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents assisted the Laredo Police Department in rescuing three illegal aliens being held against their will in a local hotel.
On August 14, the Laredo Police Department requested assistance from Border Patrol agents regarding a 911 call from a local hotel where occupants were being held against their will. While the smugglers were not present, the illegal aliens alerted the front desk of their situation and the Laredo Police Department responded.
The illegal aliens advised the agents that they were not allowed to exit the room and that their families were continuously contacted to pay for their release.
The subjects were determined to be from the country of Mexico and were processed accordingly.
“This rescue illustrates how well the Border Patrol works with our local law enforcement partners to disrupt and degrade criminal organizations that constantly put people’s lives in danger. We will continue to work diligently to protect America and prevent people from being subjected to dangerous, deplorable situations,” said Laredo Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens.
To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free at 1-800-343-1994.
Stash House Discovered by Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents
Release Date: August 15, 2018
Border Patrol agents discovered 10 illegal aliens within a stash house in Laredo, Texas. Photo by CBP.LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Laredo South Station on Aug. 14 discovered a stash house utilized to harbor illegal aliens.
Agents conducting surveillance in Laredo, Texas witnessed suspicious activity, consistent with human smuggling, outside of a local establishment on San Bernardo Avenue.
As a result, agents were able to identify a suspected stash house. Border Patrol agents, in coordination with the Webb County Sheriff’s Office, subsequently discovered 10 illegal aliens inside the stash house located on McPherson Avenue and arrested a United States citizen.
Agents determined the illegal aliens were from the country of Mexico and were found to be in good health.
All subjects were processed accordingly and the vehicle was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
To report suspicious activity such as drug and/or alien smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free telephone number at 1-800-343-1994.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol seizes nearly 550 pounds of marijuana
Release Date: August 15, 2018
Border Patrol agents seize over $430K in marijuana. Photo by CBP.SAN JUAN, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Weslaco station disrupted a narcotic smuggling attempt.
Yesterday, agents working near San Juan, Texas, observed a sedan traveling toward the Rio Grande.
Once near the river, multiple subjects loaded the vehicle with bundles of marijuana. The driver then departed the river area at a high rate of speed.
Agents responded and the driver abandoned the vehicle in the nearby brush. Inside the vehicle, agents discovered nearly 550 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $438,000.00. Agents observed all the subjects swim back to Mexico.
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 Discovers 27 Illegal Aliens inside Rental Vehicles in the RIo Grande Valley
Release Date: August 15, 2018
FALFURRIAS, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents continue to encounter dangerous smuggling tactics at immigration checkpoints.
On Sunday afternoon, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Falfurrias Checkpoint referred a rental box truck to the secondary inspection area after a Border Patrol K-9 alerted to the cargo.
During the investigation, agents discovered 18 illegal aliens from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. During processing, agents identified one of the illegal aliens as a 17 year-old unaccompanied child.
The following day, agents referred a rental van to the secondary area after a Border Patrol K-9 alerted. Inside, agents discovered nine illegal aliens from the countries of Mexico and Honduras.
Agents referred both cases to Homeland Security Investigations for prosecution.
Operation Big Rig is a call to action for the community to get involved and call 911 if they see or are aware of smuggling or suspicious activity, “They’re humans, not cargo.”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Rio Grande Valley Agents Seize Cocaine at the Falfurrias Checkpoint
Release Date: August 15, 2018
Agents seize almost $150K in cocaine at the Falfurrias checkpoint. Photo by CBP.FALFURRIAS, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents stop a cocaine smuggling attempt at the checkpoint.
Early Saturday morning, agents working at the Falfurrias Checkpoint boarded a bus traveling north on U.S. Highway 281 to conduct immigration inspections on all passengers.
During the inspection, agents encountered a woman who had noticeable and suspicious bulges under her clothing.
After speaking with the subject and during a subsequent search, it was determined the bulges were bundles of cocaine. The cocaine weighed a nearly five pounds and is worth an estimated $148K.
The narcotics and the woman have been turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case remains under investigation.
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 Sector Continues to lead the Nation in Illegal Alien Apprehensions
Release Date: August 15, 2018
Rio Grande Valley continues to encounter large Family Unit groups. Photo by CBP.EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents in the Rio Grande Valley continue to experience large numbers of illegal alien apprehensions.
Early Sunday morning, the McAllen Border Patrol Station received a report of several subjects hiding inside an abandoned house in Abram, Texas.
Agents, alongside local law enforcement, responded to the residence and discovered 16 illegal aliens from the countries of Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
Later that day, McAllen agents responded to assist the Mission Police Department after they received a report of a possible stash house operation. Upon investigation, eight illegal aliens were discovered inside the residence.
Hours later, Weslaco agents working near Hidalgo, Texas encountered a group of 42 subjects who were smuggled across the Rio Grande. The group consisted of family units and unaccompanied children from the countries of Guatemala and Honduras.
On Monday, Weslaco agents responded to the same area near Hidalgo, Texas and encountered a group of 44 illegal aliens comprised of family units and unaccompanied children from the country of Guatemala.
For the month of July, the Rio Grande Valley Sector accounts for more than half of the all family unit apprehensions and nearly half of the total illegal alien apprehensions throughout the southwest border.
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.
Border Patrol Agents Continue to Save Lives in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 15, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents continue rescue efforts in the Rio Grande Valley.
On Saturday, Falfurrias agents responded to an emergency call from a Honduran national who was lost south of Falfurrias, Texas. The man advised he was traveling with another subject and needed assistance.
Agents responded to the last known GPS coordinates and located the two men. Both were provided basic medical attention and transported to the Falfurrias Border Patrol Station.
Early Sunday morning, Falfurrias agents apprehended a Salvadoran man as he attempted to traverse through the vast ranch lands of Brooks County.
At the Falfurrias Border Patrol Station, the man began to complain of stomach pains and was immediately transported to a hospital where he was admitted due to a heat related illness.
Early this morning, McAllen agents encountered a Mexican woman near Mission, Texas, who appeared disoriented. A Border Patrol Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) evaluated the woman and recorded her temperature at 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
The EMT immediately began procedures to reduce the high temperature and requested an ambulance. The woman was transported and admitted to a local hospital.
Hours later, Duval County Sheriff’s Office contacted the Falfurrias Border Patrol Station regarding a 911 caller who was lost after being left behind by smugglers.
Agents, along with an Air and Marine Operations helicopter, responded to the origin of the call and located th the Honduran man. All subjects will be processed accordingly.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Border Patrol Agents Arrest Four Criminal Aliens in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: August 15, 2018
EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents in the Rio Grande Valley continue to encounter criminal aliens hidden among the hundreds of illegal aliens attempting to enter the country daily.
On Wednesday, Kingsville agents arrested a Salvadoran man attempting to circumvent the immigration checkpoint. Record checks on the man revealed he had been arrested and charged in El Salvador for aggravated homicide.
Later that day, agents in Falfurrias assisted the Brooks County Sheriff’s Office with a traffic stop that resulted in the arrest of a Salvadoran man who was illegally present in the United States.
Record checks on the man revealed a previous arrest and conviction for lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14 in Merced, California.
That same day, Fort Brown agents arrested a Mexican man near Brownsville, Texas whose records checks revealed a previous arrest by the Denton, Texas Police Department for aggravated sexual assault of a child. The man was subsequently convicted of a lesser charge and sentenced to 16 months in prison.
Early this morning, McAllen agents apprehended a Salvadoran man amongst a group of seven illegal aliens south of Mission, Texas.
While processing the group, it was discovered that the man had previously been arrested by the Montgomery County, Maryland Police Department and was convicted of sexual abuse of a minor. The man was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
All subjects will be processed accordingly.
The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Border Patrol Agents Foil Human Smuggling Attempt
Release Date: August 14, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents from the Hebbronville Border Patrol Station arrested one United States citizen and six illegal aliens during a human smuggling attempt on a ranch near Hebbronville, Texas.
On August 13, agents responded to a report of several subjects in the brush on a ranch and subsequently apprehended five illegal aliens.
The group consisted of one United States Citizen (USC) and four illegal aliens from Guatemala. Moments later agents found two more illegal aliens, a Mexican National and a Honduran National.
The USC was identified as the alien smuggler and was placed under arrest and all illegal aliens were processed accordingly.
Agents later discovered that the United States citizen had an extensive criminal record to include prior convictions of transporting illegal aliens. The case was referred to Homeland Security Investigations.
To report suspicious activity such as drug and/or alien smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free telephone number at 1-800-343-1994.
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