Staff Reports
The Department of Justice has decided to take border security seriously, filing nearly 200 new federal criminal cases in Texas, particularly in South Texas hotspots like Houston. This surge in action comes hot on the heels of a string of deportation raids that have made it clear: the days of ignoring immigration violations may finally be numbered. It seems that the Biden administration could take a page out of this playbook, but why make progress when chaos is so much more entertaining?
Nearly half of the new cases are against illegal aliens pulling off the impressive feat of illegally re-entering the country after getting kicked out. Talk about determination! However, understanding this determination requires stepping beyond mere recognition of their “grit.” One has to acknowledge that many of those charged have prior felony convictions, which add to their impressive résumé of narcotics offenses and violent crime. This is not just a simple case of crossing a line in the sand; it’s a concern for every American who values safety and lawfulness.
In addition to the typical immigration violations, law enforcement isn’t pulling any punches, hitting two bakery owners with charges for harboring illegal workers. Apparently, the enticing aroma of fresh bread can blind some to the legalities of hiring illegal aliens and stashing them in an adjacent room, complete with mattresses on the floor. While cozy accommodations may seem like a perk, the U.S. Justice Department isn’t exactly handing out gold stars for such hospitality.
The wild smuggling stories keep rolling in, with people like Marvin Reyes leading operations that sweep through Texas like a hot knife through butter. Not only did he orchestrate human smuggling across Border Patrol checkpoints, but he also arranged private flights for illegal aliens. Perhaps he thought he could outsmart the system by providing a “first-class” experience to those taking the illegal route. For his work in the dark underbelly of smuggling, Reyes will probably be spending the next nine years wondering if he could have made just a few better life choices.
Texas, particularly areas like Colony Ridge, has been in the headlines lately, not just for its picturesque landscapes but its connection to illegal immigration activities. With nearly 350 pounds of meth seized thanks to the corruption produced by previously deported individuals, the notion that these hotbeds of illegal activity need to be monitored is more pertinent than ever. It’s almost as if law enforcement should set up some kind of permanent surveillance—oh wait, they already are! Perhaps Texas could start offering tours of Colony Ridge, warning visitors about the criminal activity that has been decidedly unwelcoming to those who follow the law.
The United States Attorney’s Southern District of Texas has its hands full as it tackles these ongoing border issues, proving to be one of the busiest in the nation. The combination of federal, state, and local law enforcement working in tandem should give citizens hope—but it’s an uphill battle when Washington seems more interested in open borders than a secure nation. Though former Border Patrol Chief Randy Clark has retired, his legacy seems to endure through continued law enforcement efforts at the border. However, it remains to be seen whether the current administration can rise to the occasion or if they will continue to play hopscotch with legislation, leaving citizens to fend for themselves.
