U.S. Border Patrol has selected Helio Franco as the new Patrol Agent in Charge (PAIC) of the Alpine Station, part of the Big Bend Sector.
Franco entered on duty with the Border Patrol in February 2005 as a member of Class 586. His first assignment was at the Fort Hancock Station in the El Paso Sector, where he began what has become a career spanning more than two decades of field and supervisory experience.
Over the years, Franco advanced through multiple leadership roles within the Border Patrol, including Supervisory Border Patrol Agent and Watch Commander, positions that placed him in charge of operational oversight and strategic assignments. He later served as Deputy Patrol Agent in Charge and, most recently, as Acting Patrol Agent in Charge at the Presidio Station, also within the Big Bend Sector.
During his tenure in West Texas, Franco has overseen complex station operations, including budget management, personnel development and operational planning. He has also been credited with contributing to the expansion and reclassification of the Presidio Station through internal justification and planning efforts.
Franco’s career has included a focus on program development and coordination. His work has involved initiatives such as the All-Terrain Vehicle Brush Crew and the Presidio Station intelligence team, as well as expanded participation in fitness, training and specialized unit activities. His background includes supervisory leadership training and operational certifications tied to rescue and field operations.
Border Patrol leadership noted Franco’s emphasis on collaboration, professional development and operational effectiveness throughout his career. His appointment to lead the Alpine Station reflects that experience as well as continuity within the Big Bend Sector.
Franco will assume responsibility for station operations, personnel and mission execution at the Alpine Station as he steps into the role of Patrol Agent in Charge.
