Trump policy on border jumpers empowers use of ‘maximum consequences,’ border agent tells Fox

A New Era in Border Enforcement: How the Shift in Administration is Impacting U.S. Border Security

Introduction
The transition from President Joe Biden to President Donald Trump has marked a significant shift in how U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents enforce border security. In an interview with Fox News Digital, San Diego Sector acting Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey Stalnaker highlighted the change in approach, emphasizing a move from a "catch-and-release" policy to one that imposes "maximum consequences" for illegal border crossers. This shift has led to notable changes in border activity, with February apprehensions reaching a nearly 25-year low and encounters with illegal migrants dropping sharply from over 130,000 in 2023 and 2024 to just 30,000 in 2024.

From Catch-and-Release to Consequences
Under the previous administration, the CBP operated under a "catch-and-release" model, where apprehended migrants were processed and released into the U.S. with a notice to appear before an immigration judge. This approach often led to many migrants disappearing into the country without ever facing further consequences. However, under the new administration, the policy has changed dramatically. Now, CBP agents are focused on providing maximum consequences, which can include jail time and repatriation to the migrants’ countries of origin. This change in posture has been a key factor in the recent decline in illegal crossings.

The Role of the Military in Border Security
The deployment of U.S. military forces to the southern border has been a game changer in enforcing border security. In the San Diego sector alone, hundreds of Marines, Army, and Navy personnel have been assigned to assist CBP agents. These military units are not only reinforcing existing border barriers with razor wire but also providing crucial support in surveillance and detection operations. The presence of military personnel has acted as a "force multiplier," enabling CBP agents to more effectively carry out their mission. This collaboration has created an "obstacle that disrupts any type of activity that tries to cross over the top or through the barrier," according to Lt. Col. Tyrone Barrion, the commanding officer of Task Force Sapper.

The Impact of the New Policy on Border Activity
The change in administration has had a visible impact on border activity. Areas that were once bustling with illegal crossings have become significantly quieter. Veterans groups have noted the "amazing difference" in the level of activity along the border. The new policy of imposing consequences, combined with the increased military presence, has deterred many migrants from attempting to cross illegally. CBP data reflects this shift, with a sharp decline in apprehensions and encounters in recent months. This reduction in illegal crossings has allowed CBP agents to focus more on preventing new attempts rather than dealing with the aftermath of large numbers of illegal entries.

The Importance of Partnerships in Border Security
The success of the new border security strategy is not just due to the change in policy or the deployment of military forces but also the strong partnerships between federal, state, and local agencies. Stalnaker emphasized the "whole of government approach" that has been instrumental in achieving the mission’s success. This collaborative effort has provided CBP agents with more resources, better surveillance, and faster response times. The partnerships have not only enhanced the effectiveness of border enforcement but also contributed to the overall safety and security of the region.

Conclusion
The shift in administration has brought about a new era in border enforcement, marked by a more robust approach to deterring illegal crossings. The move from catch-and-release to consequences, combined with the deployment of military forces and strong partnerships between agencies, has led to a significant reduction in illegal border activity. As the CBP continues to implement these new policies, the southern border is likely to remain a focus of attention, with ongoing efforts aimed at maintaining security and order. The collaboration between CBP, the military, and other agencies has demonstrated the effectiveness of a comprehensive and coordinated approach to border security.