Chief Jason Owens United States Border Patrol | U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Border Patrol agents in the Houlton Sector apprehended two Indian nationals who crossed the border on foot near Bridgewater, Maine, on August 1. The individuals are being prosecuted under 8 U.S. Code § 1325 and will also face removal proceedings. Encounters with Indian nationals remain rare in this area; only 15 such cases have occurred over the past three fiscal years.
The agency has recently hired additional Border Patrol agents in Maine to support ongoing efforts at the border. According to Houlton Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Craig Shepley, “While the U.S. Border Patrol is experiencing record breaking low numbers of illegal crossings, some individuals still attempt to violate our laws. If you cross our borders illegally you will be apprehended, prosecuted and deported back to your country of origin.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) continues to patrol and monitor the border using available resources and technology as part of its mission to secure national boundaries.
CBP has introduced a voluntary process for those illegally present in the United States who wish to return home or travel to another accepting country. The CBP Home app allows eligible individuals to indicate their intention to depart voluntarily. Those who use the app may receive assistance with travel arrangements, document preparation, and may be deprioritized for detention during departure preparations. Additionally, a $1,000 stipend is offered upon confirmed departure through the app process. More information can be found at https://go.dhs.gov/wqB.
CBP is recognized as America’s largest law enforcement organization and oversees unified border management efforts with more than 65,000 personnel across land, air, and sea operations.
