Border Patrol Announces $5,000 Apprehension Fee for Illegal Aliens

U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks announced this week that illegal aliens age 14 and older who entered the country without inspection will be assessed a $5,000 apprehension fee. The warning came as CBP Air and Marine Operations cautioned would‑be migrants against attempting illegal sea crossings, and the Department of Homeland Security declared that President Trump and Secretary Kristi Noem have delivered seven straight months with zero Border Patrol releases — the longest stretch in history.

{snip}

CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO) reinforced the warning with a blunt message to would‑be migrants: “If you cross the border illegally, you will be caught, deported, and banned from ever returning to the United States. Don’t take to the sea!” The statement highlights the growing use of maritime routes by smugglers and underscores CBP’s commitment to shutting down illegal entry attempts by air and water as well as on land.

{snip}