CBP officers charged after allegedly taking bribes to wave in illegal immigrants
Two U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers have been charged with taking bribes to allow individuals to enter the country without proper documentation at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, the busiest border crossing in America.
CBP Officers Farlis Almonte and Ricardo Rodriguez allegedly permitted numerous vehicles carrying illegal immigrants to pass through without undergoing necessary checks in exchange for thousands of dollars. Court documents revealed incriminating phone messages between the officers and human smugglers in Mexico, as well as substantial unexplained cash deposits in their bank accounts.
In one instance captured on surveillance video, a car with two occupants only officially recorded the driver entering the U.S., omitting the second individual. Upon Almonte’s arrest, authorities seized nearly $70,000 in cash believed to be destined for Tijuana. Additional charges, including money laundering and evidence tampering, may be brought against him.
Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden emphasized the severity of these actions, stating that any CBP agent aiding smugglers is violating their oath and jeopardizing national security. Rodriguez’s attorney, Michael Hawkins, asserted his client’s innocence, emphasizing the presumption of innocence and describing Rodriguez as diligent and faithful.
Notably, this is not an isolated incident within the CBP. Over the past two years, five officers in the San Diego region have faced similar corruption allegations. The National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), representing CBP officers, declined to provide immediate comment on the matter.
As investigations continue, the integrity and diligence of CBP officers are under scrutiny. Upholding the rule of law and safeguarding national security remain paramount in addressing corruption within border enforcement agencies.
