Shane Millan, a 53-year-old former Border Patrol Agent from Jefferson County, New York, has pleaded guilty to two counts of deprivation of rights under color of law. The plea was entered in federal court in Syracuse.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel Hanlon and Vance Kuhner, Special Agent in Charge for U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Office of Professional Responsibility in New York, made the announcement regarding Millan's admission of guilt.
Millan confessed that he abused his position as a Border Patrol Agent by willfully depriving multiple individuals of their constitutional right against unreasonable searches. During virtual processing related to their admission into the United States, Millan instructed victims to expose their bare chests via webcam. He falsely claimed these requests were legitimate searches necessary for admission into the country but admitted they were for his personal gratification.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 7, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Thérèse Wiley Dancks. Millan could face up to two years in prison and a fine reaching $200,000. The sentence will be determined by a judge based on statutory guidelines and other considerations.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility Investigative Operations Directorate. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael F. Perry and Michael D. Gadarian are handling the prosecution.
