Border Patrol, National Guard Partnership Helps Deny, Deter Illegal Immigration

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials have noted a decrease in illegal entry on the southwest border, a trend they credit in part to increased support from the National Guard.

To date, the Guard’s support has allowed 265 agents to return to the frontline along the 2,000-mile border with Mexico. “Operation Jump Start has been tremendous,” Border Patrol Chief David V. Aguilar said. “It has been very positive for the United States Border Patrol.”

The southwest border has seen a significant decrease in apprehensions since the operation was announced, Aguilar said. Although there is a typical downturn during the heat of the summer, this year’s numbers are below previous years, especially since March.