Border Security: The Role of the U.S. Border Patrol
Haddal, C. C. (2010). Border Security: The Role of the U.S. Border Patrol. Congressional Research Service. 7-5700. RL32562. Washington, DC.
The United States Border Patrol (USBP) has a long and storied history as our nation’s first line of defense against unauthorized migration. The USBP’s primary mission is to detect and prevent the entry of terrorists, weapons of mass destruction, and illegal aliens into the country, and to interdict drug smugglers and other criminals along the border. This article explores the background, organization, and composition of USBP. It also examines border security issues particular to both the northern and southern U.S. borders, as well as border patrol issues important for U.S. government consideration.