In an exclusive interview with CBS News, U.S. Border Patrol chief Jason Owens expressed concern about the situation at the southern border, labeling it a “national security threat.” Owens highlighted the issue of tens of thousands of migrants who have evaded apprehension and entered the country surreptitiously over the past five months. Border Patrol is on track to record one million apprehensions of migrants between ports of entry along the U.S.-Mexico border in the 2024 fiscal year, with the possibility of reaching two million apprehensions by the end of September. Owens emphasized the worry over the 140,000 known “got-aways” who are detected crossing illegally but not apprehended, raising questions about their intent and potential threats to communities.
Owens emphasized the importance of border security in national security, stating that not knowing who is entering the country and their intentions poses a significant threat. While acknowledging that most migrants coming to the U.S. border are good people seeking a better life or fleeing violence and poverty, he stressed the need for them to enter the country legally. Owens noted that only a small percentage of migrants apprehended at the border are serious criminals, with the majority surrendering to escape dire conditions in their home countries. Customs and Border Protection data show that only a tiny fraction of migrants processed by Border Patrol have criminal records, and studies indicate that migrants in the U.S. illegally do not commit crimes at a higher rate than native-born Americans.
Despite the majority of migrants being non-criminal individuals seeking refuge, top law enforcement officials like FBI director Christopher Wray have expressed concerns about criminal actors taking advantage of the situation at the border. Owens highlighted the challenge of not knowing the intentions of those evading apprehension and crossing illegally, emphasizing the need to address this vulnerability to protect communities. The Border Patrol chief urged migrants to choose legal means of entry to avoid starting off on the wrong foot by breaking laws, while also recognizing the complexities and hardships that drive individuals to seek a better life in the U.S.
The ongoing situation at the southern border underscores the complexities of immigration policy and border security, with officials grappling with managing the influx of migrants while ensuring national security. Owens’ comments shed light on the challenges faced by Border Patrol in addressing the issue of individuals evading apprehension and entering the country undetected. The concerns raised about potential threats posed by unknown individuals crossing illegally highlight the need for comprehensive and effective border security measures. As the debate over immigration policies continues, finding a balance between humanitarian considerations and national security interests remains a key challenge for U.S. authorities.
