Border Patrol Inspects New Mexico School Bus, Sparks Outcry

LAS CRUCES, N.M. — A group of Las Cruces High School students traveling to a swimming competition in Albuquerque were confronted by U.S. Border Patrol agents at a checkpoint on Interstate 25, prompting accusations of harassment from local lawmakers.

On February 21, Border Patrol agents conducted what they described as a “routine immigration inspection” of a charter bus carrying the students. The agents claimed the bus lacked school markings, designating it a standard charter vehicle. “The primary objective was to verify the legal status of the passengers,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stated.

However, Democratic Representative Gabe Vasquez criticized the agents for their approach, claiming the situation escalated when agents questioned the driver, who did not speak English. According to Vasquez’s office, an agent boarded the bus, disregarded attempts by coaches to explain the situation, and demanded identification from the students, leaving many visibly shaken.

“Harassing and frightening children does not make New Mexico safer,” Vasquez remarked. “No student should have to fear law enforcement while traveling to a school event.” He has since called on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to review the incident and ensure better guidelines for interacting with minors during such inspections.

In a letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Vasquez demanded a formal accounting of the incident, including a written policy delineating how agents should address minors during inspections. “I demand that you provide my office with a full accounting and explanation of this incident,” he wrote.

Kelly Jameson, communication director at Las Cruces Public Schools, confirmed that the students were traveling to a state competition and complied with the Border Patrol’s instructions. “We hope this was an isolated event, as all students, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to a free public education,” she stated, emphasizing that the event was an extension of the school’s educational program.

Support for Vasquez’s claims also came from parents. Kelly Campion, whose son was on the bus, expressed outrage on social media: “Demanding documentation from minors as they are on their way to a school event is insane.”

CBP defended its actions, noting that such checkpoints play a critical role in national security. A spokesperson remarked, “Checkpoint inspections in the El Paso Sector are instrumental in deterring illegal immigration and ensure compliance with immigration laws.” They added that after verifying the passengers’ legal status, all individuals were confirmed to be legally present in the country, and the agents left without incident.

The incident adds to ongoing discussions about immigration enforcement practices, particularly relating to the treatment of children and families at checkpoints. Critics argue that practices like these create fear in immigrant communities and undermine trust between families and law enforcement.