Reinforced Border Security Strategies Under Trump Administration Reshape U.S. Customs Approach

SAN DIEGO — A significant shift in U.S. border enforcement has emerged following the transition from President Joe Biden to President Donald Trump, according to insights from a key border sector leader. Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey Stalnaker of the San Diego Sector of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) discussed this pivotal change during an interview with Fox News Digital.

Stalnaker stated, “We have changed from a posture of catch-and-release to providing maximum consequences to the greatest extent possible for anyone and everyone who crosses.” This perspective highlights a renewed focus on stronger enforcement measures aimed at irregular migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Significant Decline in Border Encounters

Recent statistics illustrate a notable transformation at the U.S. southern border. CBP reports indicate that illegal border apprehensions declined significantly in February, reaching a nearly 25-year low. In stark contrast to 2023 and 2024, when encounters with illegal migrants surpassed 130,000, this year recorded merely 30,000 apprehensions.

The San Diego border sector, typically known for high activity, has aligned with this trend of reduced encounters. Stalnaker attributes this change in part to the policies enacted under the current administration.

New Enforcement Strategies Implemented

Following the administration change, Stalnaker emphasized the enhanced ability of border agents to apply consequences for illegal crossings. He explained, “Once the new administration came in, we are able to exercise and provide consequences to the greatest extent, which then gets illegal migrants either jail time and/or facilitates their repatriation to their home countries.”

This new approach contrasts sharply with the previous catch-and-release strategy. Under the former policy, agents would detain undocumented migrants temporarily before releasing them with instructions to appear for immigration hearings. In the current approach, however, the objective is to detain migrants and pursue all available legal consequences.

Military Support Boosts Border Operations

The deployment of U.S. military forces has also played a crucial role in enhancing border security. Stalnaker noted the significant presence of Marines, Army, and Navy personnel assigned to the San Diego sector shortly after Trump assumed office. Almost 500 Marines are currently active in the area, reinforcing border barriers and providing additional support to CBP agents.

Stalnaker remarked, “They’re a great partner. We enjoy having them out here, and the help they’re providing assists us with our mission.” This collaborative approach exemplifies the unified effort towards achieving border security objectives.

Fortifying Border Barriers with Engineering Expertise

As part of Task Force Sapper, military engineers are actively engaged in bolstering the existing primary and secondary barriers within the San Diego sector. Lt. Col. Tyrone Barrion, commanding officer of Task Force Sapper, stated, “We are the engineers that are conducting the construction down on the southern border in order to reinforce the existing primary and secondary barrier that exists in the San Diego sector.”

The added barrier fortifications involve razor wire and other enhancements to create a robust obstacle against potential breaches. Barrion highlighted that these developments afford law enforcement more reaction time to address border incidents effectively.

Leveraging Additional Military Resources

In addition to the Marines, several companies of Army engineers and military police from Ft. Campbell, Kentucky, are strategically deployed to support operations. This expanded presence allows for improved surveillance and detection, providing CBP agents with enhanced capabilities to respond rapidly to illegal border crossings.

Stalnaker remarked, “The all-hands-on-deck approach since the start of the Trump administration has contributed to the successful missions. It’s a force multiplier, assisting us in accomplishing our mission.”

Collaborative Efforts Strengthen Border Security

The collaborative efforts among various federal, state, and local partners contribute significantly to improved border control measures. Stalnaker emphasized the importance of partnerships across different levels of government, stating, “And it’s that whole government approach that it takes for us to accomplish our mission.” This comprehensive strategy is crucial in ensuring effective management of border security challenges.

The changes in enforcement policies following the Trump administration’s inception reflect a broader commitment to uphold and enhance border security. As the situation continues to evolve, the joint efforts among border agents and military personnel underscore a renewed focus on addressing illegal immigration and ensuring the integrity of U.S. borders.