A fresh group of National Guard members now has the power to detain migrants.
Chief Patrol Agent Lloyd Easterling, from the U.S. Border Patrol’s Big Bend Sector, recently held a ceremony at the Alpine Station in Alpine, Texas. During this event, he had the honor of deputizing members of the Texas Army National Guard, administering the oath of office to them.
Guard members can now actively enforce federal immigration laws under Title 8. Previously, their primary responsibilities included intelligence gathering, observation, and logistical support.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has announced that soldiers are now empowered to apprehend and detain migrants who are in the country illegally or have committed other immigration offenses. This authority is granted under the guidance and supervision of a U.S. Border Patrol agent.
“We have a long-standing partnership that holds great significance in safeguarding our communities and ensuring the safety of our fellow Americans, both domestically and internationally,” Easterling stated. “I deeply value your commitment to this mission, and I am excited to continue working together towards our shared goals.”
On Thursday, Chief Patrol Agent Walter N. Slosar of the El Paso Sector enlisted the help of 60 National Guard members to reinforce the border wall in El Paso.
According to a representative from the Texas Department of Public Safety, the soldiers will be deployed to various locations based on the specific requirements.
“They will be deployed to high-threat areas,” stated Jose Sanchez, the West Texas Regional Director. He further explained, “The determination of their placement will be made by Border Patrol. For instance, if there is a hotspot like Mount Cristo Rey that has been a persistent problem, and they require additional manpower, the forces will be directed accordingly.”
Mount Cristo Rey, located where Texas, New Mexico, and the Mexican state of Chihuahua converge, serves as a bustling corridor for migrant smuggling along the U.S.-Mexico border. Its rugged terrain provides smugglers with ample hiding spots to evade border agents. Unfortunately, this treacherous area is also known for causing injuries to migrants and tragic falls.
Chief Patrol Agent Jesse D. Muñoz, from the Laredo Sector, is set to deputize a new batch of Texas National Guard soldiers in Laredo, Texas on Wednesday.
The ceremony will take place at noon in Hangar No. 3 at the Laredo Branch of CBP Air and Marine Operations.
