About the Border Patrol Agent

The U.S. Border Patrol is a relatively new and somewhat controversial organization that is part of Homeland Security. Those who work for the group, known as border patrol agents, are given the job of watching over unauthorized points of entry into the country. These agents prove very useful, though they are subject to criticism.

History

Since 1904, mounted watchmen have patrolled the U.S.-Mexican border. During these early years, the precursors to the modern border patrol agent were apprehending Chinese looking to escape the Chinese Exclusion Act or the National Origins Act. It wasn't until 1924, though, that the actual border patrol organization was formed. After the 9/11 attacks, border patrol agents merged with Homeland Security.

Function

The main function of the border patrol agent is to protect the unauthorized points of entry into the United States from illegal immigrants. Since they merged with Homeland Security, one of their primary objectives has been to specifically target terrorists and keep them and terrorist weapons from entering the country.

Geography

The United States Border Patrol employs agents spread out in various parts of the country. The highest concentration of border patrol agents is found along the U.S.-Mexico border, where illegal immigration is a big issue. Other agents patrol the U.S.-Canada border, the waters off the west coast and the waters off the coast of Florida and Puerto Rico, which is another major point of entry for illegal immigrants.

Training

Border patrol agents spend a minimum of 11 weeks at the Border Patrol Academy in New Mexico. If they are not fluent in Spanish, their training is extended for 8 more weeks. During their time at the academy, agents take courses in Immigration Law, Criminal Law, Care and Use of Firearms, Anti-terrorism, as well as physical training and motor vehicle courses.

Considerations

While border patrol agents appear to have a very important job, there are criticisms toward them, and the department has undergone a number of investigations. In 1998, Amnesty International found that some agents abused illegal immigrants to a point where it would be considered a human rights violation. Other illegal activity among border patrol agents involves harboring illegal aliens or smuggling others over the border illegally.

Resources

• Border Patrol Agent Online Application