Local Border Patrol report decrease in apprehensions

The El Centro Border Patrol Station has seen a 25% decrease in apprehensions over the last month.

Assistant Chief Patrol Agent Joshua C. Devack, from the El Centro Sector, stated at a press conference Friday stating the decrease is partially due to bilateral communication with Mexico.

Devack said Mexico has played a big role in enforcing immigration laws along the U.S. and Guatemala border.

He also said Mexico has made efforts to dismantle organized smuggling operations that help migrants gain entry into the U.S.

Nationwide Border Patrol said they have seen a 22% decrease in apprehensions.

Although a decrease in apprehensions has been the trend this month, Devack says they are prepared for any spike that may occur.

According to previous data collected by Border Patrol in the El Centro Sector, apprehensions tend to increase in the cooler months.

Devack said the El Centro Sector is prepared if this does happen.

He also touched on their efforts to help neighboring sectors like Yuma and San Diego with the processing of migrants who are seeking asylum.

Devack says that the El Centro sector is expecting at least 50 new border patrol recruits by the end of this year.

He said it’s an increase in recruitment that is much needed in the El Centro sector.