By Matthew Holloway |
Border Patrol is stepping up enforcement along the U.S.-Mexico border with new “prosecution enhancements,” according to Jason E. Schneider, Acting Chief Patrol Agent for the Rio Grande Valley. The policy applies harsher federal charges to both illegal aliens crossing the border and smugglers.
In a post to X, Chief Schneider announced that the “RGV Border Patrol is now using tougher federal charges against illegal crossings & smuggling, including: 18 USC 2339 – Aiding Terrorists, 8 USC 1326 – Illegal Reentry, 8 USC 1324 – Alien Smuggling, 8 USC 1325 – Illegal Entry.”
In an infographic, the post from Schneider announced, “The Border is Closed.”
Under 18 U.S.C. § 2339A and 18 U.S.C. § 2339B, U.S. law says, “Whoever provides material support or resources or conceals or disguises the nature, location, source, or ownership of material support or resources, knowing or intending that they are to be used in preparation for, or in carrying out” a terrorist attack will face punishments ranging from fines to 15 years in prison, or if the death of any person should be connected to their action, a life sentence.
In a follow-up comment, Schneider wrote, “Cross illegally & you will face serious consequences. Honor First!”
Schneider was named acting chief patrol agent following the removal of former RGV Chief Patrol Agent Gloria Chavez. In a statement released to Valley Central in early August, U.S. CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott explained, “CBP does not comment on specific disciplinary actions,” however, he alluded to “misconduct—on or off duty—by a few,” and “refusing to accept misconduct of even a few, regardless of rank.”
He stated in full:
“We will continue to adhere to our core values: Integrity is our cornerstone. We are guided by the highest ethical and moral principles. Our actions must bring honor to ourselves and our agency. Misconduct—on or off duty—by a few distracts from the honorable service of the many. CBP leadership under the Trump Administration are extremely proud to support the agents that honorably protect America every day by refusing to accept misconduct of even a few, regardless of rank.”
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
