San Luis, Arizona CBP Officers Foil Child Smuggling Attempt
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in San Luis, Arizona thwarted a child smuggling attempt and arrested a woman in connection with the incident. On April 29th, at approximately 3:00 a.m., officers encountered a 23-year-old Mexican citizen and Legal Permanent Resident driving a 2013 Chevrolet sedan with a sleeping child in the back seat.
During inspection, the woman presented a U.S. birth certificate, claiming to be the child's mother. However, officers noted the child's unusually deep sleep and apparent age discrepancy with the birth certificate. Further investigation revealed no familial relationship and that the birth certificate, while authentic, belonged to another child. The 5-year-old boy was a Mexican citizen without proper entry documentation.
The woman admitted to sedating the child before attempting to cross the border. Area Port Director Chris Leon stated, “Sedating children is a dangerous and common tactic used by human smugglers. Our CBP officers are aware of these trends and committed to border security, especially protecting children.”
Authorities seized the vehicle and transferred the woman to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. Charges may be filed, but the individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
CBP's Mission
CBP's Office of Field Operations plays a crucial anti-terrorism role at U.S. ports of entry. Officers screen all people, vehicles, and goods entering the country while facilitating legitimate trade and travel. Their duties include narcotics interdiction, immigration and trade law enforcement, and protecting the nation's food supply.