Texas Sheriff Reports Significant Drop in Illegal Border Crossings Amid Facility Closures

Texas Sheriff Reports Significant Drop in Illegal Border Crossings Amid Facility Closures

A Texas sheriff whose county borders Mexico has reported a remarkable decrease in illegal migrant crossings. Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland of Terrell County informed Fox News Digital that this decline has been particularly noticeable since President Donald Trump assumed office. Over the past two weeks, the sheriff noted an even sharper drop in activity.

“Since President Trump took over, we have seen a continued decline in apprehensions,” Cleveland explained. He highlighted that the current period usually coincides with increased crossings due to the full moon, yet his region has experienced the opposite.

The latest data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection indicates substantial changes on the ground. Earlier this month, the agency revealed a staggering 93% reduction in year-over-year apprehensions at the border for April. Under the Biden administration, 129,000 apprehensions were recorded in April 2024, contrasting sharply with just 8,383 under Trump during the same month.

Context of Declining Crossings

When examining trends in border activity, Sheriff Cleveland remarked on the challenges faced during the Biden administration, marked by unprecedented levels of migrant crossings and fatalities. “We saw, just like the rest of the U.S.-Mexico border, record levels of crossings and gotaways in our county,” he pointed out. This issue has persisted within the expansive parameters of Terrell County, which measures over 2,300 square miles and includes 54 miles of river along the border.

Tom Homan, who served as Trump’s border czar, commented on this significant drop, declaring that the current state of the U.S. border is the most secure in history. According to Homan, effective executive orders from Trump’s administration are key to this stability.

Strategic Measures Impacting Illegal Crossings

Cleveland acknowledged various strategic measures that have contributed to the decline in illegal crossings. Specific policies implemented during Trump’s presidency, such as the Migrant Protection Protocols and agreements with third countries, play a crucial role. Homan noted that the effectiveness of these policies has empowered a strong presidential approach towards border security.

For instance, the “Remain in Mexico” policy, expanded third country agreements, and a steadfast commitment to building border barriers were pivotal in enhancing security along the Texas border. These measures have fostered stability and reduced dangerous crossings.

Facility Closures in Response to Reduced Activity

The sheriff’s observations on declining border activity align with recent news from San Diego, where an immigrant center recently shut down due to a historic drop in illegal crossings. According to the U.S. Border Patrol San Diego Sector, March 2025 saw only 1,199 arrests, averaging 38 per day. This represented a staggering 186% decrease compared to the same month in the previous year.

Cleveland suggested that further facility closures may occur if illegal crossing numbers continue to trend downward. “As the border activity becomes slower, we’re noticing Border Patrol closing more facilities on the south side,” he stated.

Implications for Border Security

These developments raise important questions about resource allocation and border security infrastructure. Sheriff Cleveland pointed out that the financial burden of maintaining open facilities may become unnecessary as crossing numbers fall. He stated, “There’s no reason to spend that money to keep those open; they can definitely use those funds in other parts of the border.”

Looking Ahead

As these trends unfold, the implications for border policy and immigration enforcement will be crucial for local communities as well as national security. With ongoing discussions about immigration reform and border safety, monitoring the situation closely will help stakeholders respond effectively to changing dynamics. These shifts call for strategic adjustments in both policy and operational practices.

Overall, the narrative emerging from Texas serves as a significant case study in the broader context of U.S. immigration issues, showcasing the complex interplay between policy, enforcement, and public safety. As law enforcement agencies navigate these changes, the focus on maintaining security while addressing humanitarian concerns remains paramount.

Navigating Uncertain Waters

The continuing decreases in illegal crossings shift the focus of many border security professionals, who must adapt to evolving circumstances while ensuring the safety of their communities. Future adjustments will likely be essential as lawmakers grapple with the implications of declining migration rates and the potential need for realigning border enforcement strategies.