Illegal Immigration Forces Port of Brownsville to Increase Security


Posted: Aug 14, 2013 7:33 PM Updated: Aug 14, 2013 8:40 PM

BROWNSVILLE - A recent spike in the number of illegal immigrants trekking through the Port of Brownsville is forcing police to increase security, officials said.

Port of Brownsville Police Chief Carlos Garcia said more cameras will be installed throughout the area.

The port already is a secured area, Garcia said.

"The Port of Brownsville is an industrial site," Garcia said.

"We're talking about an area that has a lot of oil-based products," Garcia said.

He said the area is off-limits to anyone who has no business in the port. Access is controlled by guards, and those boating in the ship channel are not allowed near structures or maritime vessels.

"We have to post a guard to identify every individual that has access to that cargo," Garcia said.

Now, port police is dealing with illegal immigrants. The port is wedged between the Rio Grande and Highway 48.

Garcia said illegal immigrants cross the river and enter port grounds.

"We have to detain them, turn them over to Border Patrol. For us, it's a breach of security. We have to report it to the Coast Guard," Garcia said.

Six sworn officers patrol the port. Garcia said the additional cameras will help those officers keep a closer eye on the area.

http://www.krgv.com/news/illegal-immigration-forces-port-of-brownsville-to-increase-security/