Republican lawmakers are seeking answers from the Biden administration regarding the increasing number of assaults on Border Patrol agents by illegal immigrants. The officials report a significant rise in such attacks, leading to concerns about the safety of agents and the need for accountability for the perpetrators.
In a letter addressed to Attorney General Merrick Garland and acting Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Troy Miller, Rep. Andy Biggs and other lawmakers raised questions about the actions being taken against illegal immigrants who assault agents in an attempt to evade capture. They highlighted the alarming statistics, with 610 agents being assaulted in FY23 and at least 413 agents in FY24. These assaults involve physical violence, as well as the use of projectiles, vehicles, and firearms.
The recent incident in which an illegal immigrant bit a Border Patrol agent in the face has sparked further concerns among lawmakers. While the attacker in this particular case was prosecuted, there are doubts about whether illegal immigrants are being held accountable for their actions. Reports indicate that assaults on agents have become a regular occurrence, with agents facing attacks almost every night while on duty.
The lawmakers are seeking information on the number of illegal immigrants referred to the Department of Justice for assault, the charges filed against them, and the reasons behind any decisions not to prosecute. They also want to know how many assailants have been released into the U.S. and what support is being provided to agents who have been assaulted.
This scrutiny of the border situation comes at a time when the Biden administration is facing criticism for its handling of illegal immigration. The influx of migrants has decreased since June, when President Biden implemented measures to limit releases into the U.S. However, the issue remains a point of contention between the Harris and Trump campaigns, with both sides trying to shift blame for the crisis.
As the debate continues, it is essential to address the safety and well-being of Border Patrol agents who put their lives on the line to protect the border. Ensuring that those who assault agents are held accountable is crucial to maintaining law and order at the border and protecting both the agents and the communities they serve.