A recent arrest of a Mexican migrant, who was an asylum applicant, for human smuggling has been announced by El Centro Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gregory K. Bovino. The announcement was made on X (formerly known as Twitter), using a hashtag that translates to 'beware of human smugglers'.
Bovino stated, "Asylum seeker becomes lawbreaker! Mexican national, asylum applicant in 2018, arrested for human smuggling. Repeatedly failed to report, disconnected tracking device, becoming a pre-order absconder. System abuse won't be tolerated & heavy consequences await! #TruchaCoyote." He further emphasized the importance of respecting the law even when seeking immigration relief or privilege. "Being processed for any type of immigration relief or privilege doesn’t ever mean it's ok to break the law," said Bovino. He expressed his bewilderment at individuals who exploit the nation's goodwill for monetary gain.
This incident follows another recent case where a Mexican national with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) privileges was also apprehended for human smuggling. Bovino commented on this case saying, "DACA privileges are contingent upon maintaining lawful conduct. This former DACA recipient no longer has those privileges & was deported back to Mexico."
The Border Patrol agents in El Centro Sector frequently encounter Mexican nationals with prior criminal records. In August, a 23-year-old Mexican man with a previous sexual offense conviction was detained by Border Patrol agents near the Calexico West Port of Entry, as reported by a Customs and Border Protection news release.
Bovino praised the efforts of the border patrol agents stating, "Patrolling the border to apprehend sexual predators and other violators, our agents are national treasures." He added his admiration for their perseverance in striving to ensure America's safety every day.
