Smugglers Taking Advantage of Humanitarian Crisis
Then-Chief Patrol Agent Jason Owens, now head of the Border Patrol, expressed his concerns about the impact of the ongoing humanitarian crisis on border security. He emphasized that while agents are tied up with processing duties, smugglers are taking advantage of the situation to continue their illicit activities. Owens highlighted the potential dangers posed by drug trafficking and the crossing of convicted felons.
Increased Number of “Gotaways” Raises Concerns
Lawmakers were informed that there were approximately 670,000 known “gotaways” in the fiscal year of 2023. The ongoing migrant crisis, where agents are overwhelmed by large groups of migrants, has heightened concerns about these individuals who evade Border Patrol detection. FBI Director Christopher Wray also expressed his concern about “gotaways,” emphasizing their significance as a law enforcement issue.
Humanitarian Mission Impacts Border Security
The Tucson Sector Chief Patrol Agent, John Modlin, explained that when agents are focused on the humanitarian mission of apprehending large groups of migrants and ensuring their safety, the border security mission suffers. Agents prioritize the well-being of migrants, which diverts resources away from securing the border.
Those Who Evade Capture Raise Alarm
Chief Patrol Agent Owens emphasized that individuals who seek to evade Border Patrol rather than turning themselves in for processing are more likely to have something to hide. He highlighted the unknown risks posed by these individuals, including their intentions and the potential threats they may bring with them. Owens expressed deep concern about the unidentified individuals crossing the border.
Criminals and Gang Members Among “Gotaways”
Border Patrol officials confirmed that among the “gotaways,” there are individuals with criminal records, including gang members, sex offenders, and those involved in homicides and burglaries. The El Paso Chief Patrol Agent, Gloria Chavez, provided this information during a congressional hearing.
Threat to National Security and Taxpayers
El Centro Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gregory Bovino expressed his broad concerns about “gotaways.” He stated that any illegal alien, including “gotaways,” poses a threat to national security and the taxpayers of the United States.
Unseen Individuals Raise Alarms
Lawmakers have been warned that the true number of “gotaways” may be even higher due to individuals evading detection. The lack of information about these individuals and their intentions raises concerns about potential threats they may pose. House Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green emphasized the need to question why these individuals would risk evading capture if they have nothing to hide.
Resources Diverted from Checkpoints
Sector chiefs discussed the challenges they face due to migratory surges, which have forced them to redirect resources from CBP checkpoints to secure the physical land border. The diversion of resources has made it more difficult to keep checkpoints open and arrest individuals attempting illegal entry.
Republicans Blame Biden Administration Policies
Republicans attribute the ongoing migrant crisis to the policies of the Biden administration, particularly the roll-back of Trump-era policies. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argues that it is dealing with a hemisphere-wide crisis and is working to expand legal pathways for entry while increasing consequences for illegal entry and targeting smugglers. They emphasize the need for more funding and immigration reform from Congress to address the broken system.
Supplemental Funding and Increased Staffing
The DHS has requested $14 billion in funding to address the ongoing crisis. The funding request includes provisions for 1,300 additional agents and 300 Border Patrol Processing Coordinators, along with other staff. The DHS aims to increase its capacity to handle the influx of migrants and improve border security.
Improving Detection Capability
Officials have highlighted that detection capability has improved, allowing for better identification of “gotaways.” The deployment of additional detection technology and the recruitment of more personnel have contributed to this improvement.
Democrats Highlight Positive Aspects
Democrats on the committee have emphasized the positive contributions of Border Patrol processing coordinators. These coordinators have improved the efficiency of processing centers and enabled more agents to be deployed in the field. Additionally, the surge of troops to the border by the Pentagon has relieved Border Patrol agents of certain responsibilities, allowing them to focus on patrol and interdiction duties.
Overall, the rise in “gotaways” at the southern border has raised significant concerns among Border Patrol officials. The ongoing humanitarian crisis and the diversion of resources have impacted border security efforts. Lawmakers continue to debate funding and immigration reform to address the challenges faced by Border Patrol in securing the border and addressing the influx of migrants.
