Exclusive | On the border, federal agents now outnumber illegal crossers — and migrants cry when they get caught

A New Era at the US-Mexico Border: Enforcement and Deterrence Under Trump

The US-Mexico border has undergone a significant transformation in recent months, marked by a sharp decline in illegal crossings and a renewed sense of vigilance among border enforcement agencies. In Sunland Park, New Mexico, a small border town, the once bustling crossing points are now eerily quiet, with Border Patrol agents encountering fewer migrants attempting to cross illegally. This shift is largely attributed to the Trump administration’s aggressive crackdown on illegal immigration, which has reintroduced stringent enforcement measures and reversed the more lenient "catch and release" policies of the previous administration. The result is a border landscape where migrants like Jovani, a 23-year-old Mexican national, find themselves facing swift apprehension and deportation.

The Human Cost of Enforcement: Jovani’s Story

Jovani’s attempted crossing into the United States is a poignant illustration of the human side of the immigration debate. A young man driven by desperation and the hope of providing for his family, Jovani paid $7,000 to smugglers to guide him across the border. His journey ended in failure as he was caught by Border Patrol agents after scaling the border wall. Tearfully, he expressed his frustration and disappointment, emphasizing his belief in the legitimacy of his pursuit of a better life. "I just want to work and help my family," he said, his voice laced with despair. Jovani’s story is not unique; many migrants caught at the border share similar motivations, fleeing economic hardship or seeking opportunities unavailable in their home countries.

The Broader Context: A Dramatic Decline in Illegal Crossings

The data tells a compelling story: illegal crossings at the southern border have plummeted to historically low levels. In the El Paso sector, which includes parts of west Texas and New Mexico, Border Patrol agents are apprehending fewer than 100 migrants per day, down from a peak of 1,800 in 2023. Nationally, the average number of daily apprehensions has dropped to just 359, putting the US on track for the lowest monthly crossings in over 25 years. This dramatic decline is the result of a multi-faceted approach by the Trump administration, including increased manpower, the deployment of advanced surveillance technology, and the reinstatement of strict enforcement policies.

A Migrant’s Plight: The Challenges of Seeking a Better Life

Jovani’s experience highlights the immense challenges migrants face in their quest for a better life. After failing in his first attempt to cross the border, he returned, determined to try again. This time, he was met with the full force of the US immigration enforcement apparatus. "I’m very sad because I couldn’t cross," he lamented, showing the cuts on his hands from scaling the border wall. Jovani’s decision to cross illegally was not taken lightly; he cited the complexity and cost of legal immigration channels as a significant barrier. His story underscores the difficult choices migrants must make, often risking their safety and well-being in pursuit of economic opportunities.

The Impact of Policy Changes on Border Enforcement

The shift in immigration policy under the Trump administration has had a profound impact on border enforcement. Border Patrol agents, who previously felt overwhelmed by the demands of processing and releasing large numbers of migrants under the "catch and release" policy, are now able to focus on their core mission of securing the border. "It’s a relief for our agents," said Border Patrol agent Orlando Marrero-Rubio. "They don’t feel overwhelmed." The return of federal agents to the frontlines, coupled with the deployment of additional troops and advanced surveillance technology, has created an environment where migrants are more likely to be caught and deported swiftly.

Securing the Border: A New Era of Cooperation and Technology

The Trump administration’s efforts to secure the border have also involved strategic initiatives to reclaim territories once controlled by smugglers. Mount Cristo Rey, a rugged and remote area near Sunland Park, was once a haven for human traffickers who exploited the region’s topography to evade authorities. Today, the mountain is under the watchful eye of Border Patrol agents, supported by artificial intelligence cameras and military personnel. This collaboration has not only reduced illegal crossings but also restored a sense of order and security to the region. As one Border Patrol agent noted, "Now we have more agents on the line doing what they’re assigned to do and looking out for making those apprehensions instead of processing." This shift marks a new era in border enforcement, one that prioritizes deterrence and security while acknowledging the complexities of the immigration challenge.