Border Patrol: Over 1.6 Million Apprehensions, Gotaways This Fiscal Year

Border Patrol: Over 1.6 Million Apprehensions, Gotaways This Fiscal Year

The US Border Patrol has released staggering statistics regarding its operations over the past fiscal year, revealing a significant uptick in both apprehensions and gotaways.

From October 2020 through August 2021, Border Patrol agents apprehended 1,547,916 individuals attempting to illegally cross the US-Mexico border. This figure represents a massive increase from the previous fiscal year, which saw just 458,088 apprehensions over the same time period.

In addition to these apprehensions, Border Patrol reported a total of 126,686 gotaways during the 2021 fiscal year. Gotaways are individuals who manage to evade apprehension by Border Patrol agents and successfully cross into the US undetected.

The reasons behind this sharp increase in illegal immigration are complex and varied, but a few factors stand out. First, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made conditions in many Central and South American countries even more difficult than they already were, leading many individuals to seek better opportunities in the US.

Second, the Biden administration’s more lenient stance on immigration and asylum-seeking has likely contributed to the increase in border crossings. In particular, the decision to cease construction on the border wall and discontinue the “Remain in Mexico” policy have made it easier for individuals to attempt to cross the border.

The Border Patrol’s recent statistics paint a picture of a situation that is rapidly spiraling out of control. With over 1.6 million apprehensions and gotaways over the past fiscal year, it is clear that something needs to be done to address the root causes of illegal immigration and secure the US-Mexico border. Failing to do so will only lead to continued overcrowding and strain on Border Patrol resources, as well as increased risks of criminal activity and public health issues.