Major Update on ‘Migrant Caravan’ at the US-Mexico Border

Eleven people who are said to be part of a Central American migrant caravan seeking asylum in the United States have been arrested for illegally entering the country.

Two Salvadorans, six Hondurans, and three Guatemalans were charged with illegal entry, a law enforcement official told the Fox News Channel.

Ten face misdemeanor charges and one will face a felony, Fox reported.

President Trump wrote on Monday night that the “‘caravan’ that is openly defying our border shows how weak & ineffective U.S. immigration laws are.”

He added, “Yet Democrats like Jon Tester continue to support the open borders agenda—Tester even voted to protect Sanctuary Cities. We need lawmakers who will put America First.”

Another 18 people were detained, but it isn’t clear if they will faces charges.

“When respect for the rule of law diminishes, so too does our ability to protect our great nation, its borders and its citizens,” Attorney General Jeff Sessions said, NBC San Diego reported. “The United States will not stand by as our immigration laws are ignored and our nation’s safety is jeopardized. U.S. Attorney Adam Braverman and his team should be commended for quickly filing illegal entry charges for individuals apprehended along the southwestern border. We will continue to work with our partners in each U.S. Attorney’s Offices to aggressively pursue prosecutions of criminal illegal entry.”

Criminal complaints said that the defendants entered the United States at a time and place other than what’s designated by immigration officers.

They also “eluded examination and inspection by immigration officers,” NBC reported.

“The American Dream has beckoned immigrants from across the globe because of the promise that prosperity and success are within reach for all,” said United States Attorney for the Southern District of California Adam L. Braverman in a statement. “Those immigrants have contributed their voices and perspectives to make up our uniquely American experience. But the foundation for the American Dream, and what allows our democracy to flourish, is commitment to the rule of law. These 11 defendants face charges now because they believed themselves to be above the law. Those seeking entry into the United States must pledge fidelity to the law, not break them, or else face criminal prosecution.”