Law enforcement is a vital part of maintaining a safety in a community. The reality is that illegal smuggling exists, and people can become violent when struggling to survive.
All of us would prefer to see fewer deaths, and it is important to recognize that professionalism and training in mindfulness and the use of force is taught in the Border Patrol.
It is also notable that Border Patrol Agents do not receive additional or continued training on professionalism, aside from on the job experiences (which are usually retold by the Agent who was faced a heightened level of stressors during said experiences.)
Recommendations include:
- Body worn cameras during traffic stops and at checkpoints (these are unfeasible during chases in the desert due to weight and terrain which is likely to damage the equipment that is currently available and affordable)
- Quarterly training on trauma (mental), de-escalation techniques, and professionalism
- Weekly informal check-ins on stress management for Agents by someone who understands the effects of trauma and stress, which include “joking” and laughing and being more quiet than usual
- Unlimited EAP services, and a phone line that is available 24/7 for agents to process with someone familiar with trauma and stresses in law enforcement work (model of Emerge! Center Against Domestic Abuse 24/7 Crisis Line)
- Healthy activities within the community, to allow Agents and community members to connect with one another.
Stories from Agents
Information from Citizen’s Academy
Border Patrol Website
What to Expect
- At a checkpoint
- If you are pulled over by an agent while traveling
- When you see an Agent
This page is hosted by Felicia Chew Community Projects
We are each a piece of the puzzle of life 