in separate incidents, each with unique special needs due to mental or physical limitations.

“The current humanitarian crisis on the border is stressing our immigration system,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez. “Our stations and processing centers were never designed to handle the current demographics of families and medical cases that we are experiencing. Our agents treat each person with humanity and compassion while enforcing the immigration laws and protecting the country.”

On March 20, agents from the Eagle Pass Station marine unit, observed a single male in a wheelchair stranded on an island in the center of the Rio Grande River. Agents responded and determined the subject was a 37-year-old male Guatemalan national. The man is a double amputee who claimed he crossed to the island on his own, but was unable to continue the crossing. He was determined to be illegally present in the United States and was assisted to the U.S. shore.

On March 19, a 41-year-old Honduran male was apprehended crossing the Rio Grande. Agents quickly realized that he could neither hear nor speak, making communication a challenge. On March 18, a 36-year-old Honduran female was arrested entering the United States illegally with her step-brother. She was found to have a mental impairment that causes her or to become agitated and inconsolable.

The female was calmed by her step-brother, so processing could be completed. All subjects were offered and received medical attention as appropriate and were processed in accordance with CBP Guidelines which includes suitable placement. The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.