Justin De La Torre, Chief Patrol Agent of the U.S. Border Patrol’s Yuma Sector, announced the arrest of a Mexican national during a vehicle stop for illegal entry. The arrest led to charges and removal proceedings, as said on X.
“An illegal alien from Mexico who decided not to use the CBP Home Application is now in Border Patrol custody facing removal proceedings,” said De La Torre, Border Patrol Chief.
According to the U.S. Border Patrol’s Yuma Sector update, the individual was apprehended after opting not to use the CBP One application, which facilitates legal entry processes. The person reportedly believed self-deportation was optional but was taken into custody after crossing without authorization.
In recent developments, Border Patrol has recorded approximately 47,000 migrant arrests for illegal crossings at the southwest border over the past year, including in the Yuma Sector. This figure represents a significant decrease from a peak of 250,000 apprehensions in December 2023, reflecting changing migration patterns as reported by Reuters in January 2025.
The introduction of the CBP One app has influenced migration trends by allowing asylum seekers to schedule lawful entry appointments, thereby reducing some illegal crossing attempts. Although exact usage-to-arrest ratios are not tracked, the Migration Policy Institute noted that increased app use has contributed to lower encounter rates at ports of entry and nearby border zones.
De La Torre assumed his role as Chief Patrol Agent of the Yuma Sector in January 2025 after a 25-year tenure with Border Patrol. His previous roles included Deputy Chief Patrol Agent in the Tucson Sector and leadership positions in San Diego; he began his career at the Imperial Beach Station, according to AZFamily News.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), operating under the Department of Homeland Security since its establishment in 1924, is responsible for safeguarding national borders and preventing illegal entry across its 328 ports of entry.
