Summary

Although the full extent of drug smuggling and illegal immigration is unknown, both pose a serious threat along the United States' southwest border. To beef up security along that border, a 1993 report by the Sandia National Laboratory recommended that the Border Patrol focus on preventing illegal entry rather than apprehending aliens once they have entered the country. This study recommended prevention measures, such as multiple barriers, enhanced checkpoint operations, and enhanced electronic surveillance equipment. In August 1994, the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) Commissioner approved a national Border Patrol strategic plan that focuses on preventing illegal entry. INS' national strategy builds on its successes in San Diego and El Paso in reducing illegal entry.