U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents stationed in Big Bend, Texas, made a significant arrest on Sunday, detaining Mexican national Hector Franco-Ortega, who confessed to being a member of the Paisa gang. Franco-Ortega, who has an active warrant for a probation violation, also has a criminal record that includes convictions for drug smuggling, human smuggling, and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.
This arrest is part of a broader effort by USBP to address the challenges posed by individuals with criminal histories attempting to cross the border. So far in Fiscal Year 2025, USBP has apprehended 2,400 noncitizens with various criminal records, including:
• 408 for driving under the influence of liquor or drugs,
• 248 related to illegal drug possession and trafficking,
• 173 for assault, battery, and domestic violence,
• 95 for burglary, robbery, and larceny,
• 1,507 for illegal entry or re-entry into the United States.
These figures underscore the ongoing commitment of USBP agents to maintain border security and prevent the entry of individuals with known criminal backgrounds into U.S. communities. The agency continues to work diligently to safeguard the border and ensure the safety of the nation.
