NCJ Number
152190
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 18 Issue: 10 Dated: (October 1994) Pages: 66-72,110-111
Date Published
1994
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article describes how the Federal Government is enhancing border control between the United States and Mexico to prevent illegal immigration and drug smuggling.
Abstract
Most border patrol agents agree that deterrence and safety will increase when they receive backup patrols, high-tech equipment, and automated systems. These are among the reinforcements that will be funded through the recent Federal crime bill. The bill will provide $284 million in fiscal 1995 to assist in immigration programs, including putting 950 more agents on the line; improving fencing, road systems, and lighting; and bringing in additional vehicles, infrared equipment, and radios. A total of $50 million will be allotted to enhance infrastructure, such as improving roads, fencing, lighting, and checkpoints; $54.5 million will be used to hire 700 new border agents and redeploy an additional 250 agents along the border. Another $17.5 million will be allocated to expedite the deportation of jail criminals; $154.6 million will be used to computerize the processing of illegal aliens and link all Immigration and Naturalization Service enforcement systems; and $130 million will help reimburse States for the cost of incarcerating illegal criminal aliens. The border control effort has already been enhanced in California, Texas, and Arizona with the use of expanded and improved fences and backup personnel.