U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers detained a 22-year-old U.S. citizen at the Hidalgo International Bridge for allegedly making verbal threats, assaulting, intimidating, resisting, or impeding officers during an inspection process. The incident occurred on February 25 when the man arrived from Mexico as a pedestrian and refused to comply with officer requests.
"CBP takes threats to our officers seriously and this type of behavior will not be tolerated. Prosecution in these cases will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law," stated Carlos Rodriguez, Port Director for Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas.
Mark Lippa, Deputy Special Agent in Charge of ICE HSI RGV, emphasized that "any verbal threats or actions made toward a federal officer will not be tolerated." He added that such conduct undermines law enforcement safety and integrity and assured that individuals involved would face legal consequences.
The detained individual was placed in a detention cell after allegedly impeding officers' ability to continue their inspection by refusing to comply. Homeland Security Investigations special agents have arrested him and initiated a criminal investigation. The CBP Office of Professional Responsibility is also reviewing the incident.
For further information about the Immigration Inspection Program, CBP encourages visiting their website. Updates are also available through social media accounts such as @DFOLaredo and @CBPSouthTexas.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection serves as America's frontline border management agency with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to protecting national security across various domains while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
