Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott, along with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas National Guard, continues to collaborate with the Trump Administration on border security initiatives. These efforts aim to curb the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people into Texas while preventing transnational criminal activities.

Operation Lone Star has resulted in over 530,800 illegal immigrant apprehensions and more than 50,300 criminal arrests. In tackling the fentanyl crisis, law enforcement seized over 622 million lethal doses of fentanyl during this mission. The state reports an 87% decrease in illegal crossings due to these measures.

The state's transportation program has relocated thousands of migrants to various cities since its inception. Notable figures include over 45,900 migrants transported to New York City since August 2022 and over 36,900 to Chicago within the same timeframe.

Governor Abbott recently urged U.S. Congress for reimbursement of $11.1 billion spent by Texas on border security efforts. He highlighted that "President Biden’s policies left Texas and the rest of America defenseless" against threats like violent criminals and known terrorists.

In a letter to President Trump, Governor Abbott requested full constitutional authority be exercised to address border challenges. Meanwhile, new floating marine barriers have been installed along the Rio Grande River as part of ongoing security measures.

DPS Lieutenant Chris Olivarez emphasized federal support under President Trump's administration as crucial for efficiency in securing borders: “Right now, we have support at the federal level—something we wanted the last four years."

Recent operations included several arrests related to smuggling activities in Webb County involving suspects Francisco Trevino and Eric Davila from Kingsville. Another incident involved Mauro Ulises Portillo Torres from Arlington who was charged with smuggling persons and unlawful firearm possession.

Additionally, DPS troopers arrested three individuals for criminal trespass in Maverick County where methamphetamine was found on one suspect's person.

Texas National Guard soldiers continue their role by repelling illegal crossings using advanced technology such as drones and surveillance systems leading to multiple apprehensions along with coordinated exercises preparing personnel for mass migration emergencies.

Sergeant Timothy Roland commented on recent training exercises stating: “The goal...is a combined effort...to accomplish this mission of border security.”