In an exclusive interview with Real America’s Voice, RAV investigative reporter Ben Bergquam sat down with San Diego Sector Border Patrol Chief Jefferey Stalnaker, who outlined the stepped-up enforcement policies now being applied along the southern border.
Chief Stalnaker made clear that the days of quick release for those crossing illegally are over—especially for individuals with criminal histories. “Currently, anyone who’s crossing is being caught, processed, and receiving consequences,” Stalnaker said. “So, if you have a criminal record of some sort, you’re going to jail. You’re going to serve time in jail, and then we’re going to send you back to the country.”
According to Stalnaker, there has been a sharp change compared to just one year ago. Migrants who once counted on being released into U.S. communities are increasingly finding themselves behind bars or swiftly deported. “Individuals know now that when they cross, they’re not being released on the streets should they make it past us on the border,” he explained. “You also have additional law enforcement here in the United States looking for them, apprehending them.”
When asked what the American people may not understand about the individuals attempting to cross, Stalnaker issued a stark warning. “Yes, there’s a significant amount of criminals out there. I believe that the public does not recognize that,” he said. “There are individuals carrying weapons, individuals smuggling drugs into the United States. Some of these individuals are extremely dangerous.”
Stalnaker said the mission is to protect American communities by taking criminals off the streets before they can cause harm. “We’re getting them off the streets. We’re making America safer,” he said firmly, adding that his team will remain unapologetic in enforcing the law.
The San Diego Sector remains one of the busiest stretches of the U.S.–Mexico border. With cartel operations, drug smuggling, and human trafficking persisting, officials say heightened enforcement is essential to restoring security.
Bergquam, who has reported extensively from the border, highlighted the contrast between media narratives and on-the-ground realities. The interview underscores both the challenges Border Patrol faces daily and the new consequences awaiting those who attempt illegal crossings—particularly repeat offenders and criminals.
As border enforcement tightens, Chief Stalnaker’s message was direct: the U.S. government is serious about consequences, and those who attempt to cross illegally with criminal records will not be allowed to stay.
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