Texas Operation Lone Star Boosts, Border Crossings Plunge by 51%

Border Patrol officers speaking with individuals near a fence.

Texas sees a dramatic 51% drop in illegal border crossings, showcasing the effectiveness of Operation Lone Star’s expansion.

At a Glance

  • Border Patrol apprehensions in Texas decreased from 1,045,655 in fiscal 2023 to 534,333 in fiscal 2024
  • The decline followed the expansion of Operation Lone Star (OLS) by Texas Governor Greg Abbott
  • El Paso Sector reported the highest number of apprehensions, with a significant portion in New Mexico
  • Neighboring states saw increased illegal crossings as Texas strengthened its border security
  • Legal disputes between Texas and the federal government continue over border security measures

Operation Lone Star’s Impact on Border Security

Texas has witnessed a remarkable reduction in illegal border crossings, with Border Patrol apprehensions plummeting by 51% from fiscal year 2023 to 2024. This significant decrease is attributed to the expansion of Operation Lone Star (OLS), a bold initiative spearheaded by Governor Greg Abbott to reinforce border security measures and effectively manage illegal immigration.

The data, covering five U.S. Customs and Border Protection sectors in Texas – Big Bend, El Paso, Del Rio, Laredo, and Rio Grande Valley – reveals a stark contrast in apprehension numbers. In fiscal 2023, there were 1,045,655 apprehensions in Texas, which dramatically decreased to 534,333 in fiscal 2024, showcasing the effectiveness of the state’s strengthened approach to border control.

Sector-by-Sector Analysis

The El Paso Sector reported the highest number of apprehensions in fiscal 2024, with a significant portion occurring in New Mexico. This surge in illegal entries in New Mexico can be attributed to the state’s Democratic governor not cooperating with Texas’ OLS efforts, highlighting the importance of inter-state collaboration in border security.

The Del Rio Sector claimed the second-highest number of apprehensions in Texas, while the Rio Grande Valley Sector experienced a substantial drop in illegal crossings following the expansion of OLS. This reduction in the Rio Grande Valley is particularly noteworthy, as it has historically been a hotspot for illegal border crossings.

Challenges and Controversies

While Texas has seen success in reducing illegal crossings, neighboring states such as New Mexico, Arizona, and California have recorded increased illegal entries. This shift in migration patterns underscores the complex nature of border security and the potential for displacement effects when one state strengthens its border measures.

The Laredo Sector, which reported 31,108 apprehensions, has been embroiled in lawsuits with the federal government over border wall construction. These legal disputes highlight the ongoing tension between state and federal authorities regarding border security jurisdiction and strategies.

The Big Bend Sector, despite being the largest geographically, had the fewest apprehensions in Texas. Notably, Terrell County within this sector declared an invasion, and its judge left the Democratic Party, reflecting the political implications of border security issues at the local level.

Future of Border Security in Texas

The appointment of Texas’ first border czar, Mike Banks, has led to the implementation of a “PDI strategy” (position, deter, and interdict), which appears to be contributing to the reduced apprehensions. This strategic approach, combined with the support of 25 governors for the OLS expansion, demonstrates a growing consensus on the need for robust border security measures.

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