U.S. Customs and Border Protection details tougher penalties for illegal crossings
Andrea Turisk
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – In a press conference Thursday morning, Border Patrol sent a firm warning to migrants trying to enter the U.S. Illegally.
The message from Border Patrol is clear: Illegal entry doesn’t just lead to deportation. It could mean jail time and daily fines. Officials say the legal way is the only secure way to enter the U.S.
U.S. Custom and Border Protections (CBP) held a press conference Thursday laying out the new reality for migrants who try to cross into the U.S. Illegally.
Agents say it’ll allow them to shift their focus back to enforcement at the border itself.
“We’ve been able to get our agents back on the field away from processing so now there is a lot less entry so we can expedite when people do come in illegally,” says Special Operations Supervisor Agent Fidel Cabrera
According to CBP, in fiscal year 2024, in Yuma, there were over 39,000 illegal encounters. In fiscal year 2025 there were just under 7,000 encounters. Showing an 82% decrease.
Some locals say they’re glad to see a tougher stance from federal agents.
Local resident Marinell Baird says, “I am all for it! I think it’s way overdue.”
“I don’t have a problem with anyone coming into this country as long as its legally,” says Barbra Coppe, another local resident.
Agent Cabera says criminal networks exploit migrants for profit and warns they offer false promises.
“Don’t use cartels…They’re just there to exploit and take your money. There’s other ways to do things. There’s a correct way to so it,” said Cabera.
Baird says these changes help her feel safer, “Absolutely, I live five miles from the border, yes! Way safer!”
Border Patrol agents say this strategy is already increasing control along the southern border. They say anyone considering crossing the border illegally the risks far out weight the chances.