07 Jul, 2023 in Recent Events
The current border crisis has become a significant concern for law enforcement professionals, as it has been linked to the climbing number of fentanyl-related deaths and the trafficking of children. In recent times, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has officially declared Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations, thus highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, has been at the center of the opioid crisis in the United States. Its potency makes it extremely dangerous, as even a small amount can lead to a fatal overdose. The increase in fentanyl-related deaths can be attributed to the ease with which it is smuggled across the border due to its compact nature and high profit margins for traffickers.
In 2022, there were 70,601 fentanyl-related deaths in the United States. This is a 25% increase from 2020 and nearly double the amount of fentanyl-related deaths in 2018. This alarming increase has prompted law enforcement agencies to prioritize efforts to intercept fentanyl shipments and dismantle the networks responsible for its distribution.
The border crisis has also led to a surge in child trafficking, with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reporting an increase in unaccompanied minors crossing the border. Traffickers have exploited the desperation of families seeking a better life for their children by promising safe passage across the border. However, many of these children end up being subjected to forced labor, sexual exploitation, or other forms of abuse.
Law enforcement professionals face numerous challenges in addressing child trafficking, including the difficulty of identifying victims and the reluctance of trafficked children to come forward due to fear of reprisal or deportation. To combat this, agencies are working to improve victim identification methods, provide specialized training for officers, and collaborate with community organizations to offer support and resources for victims.
In response to the increasing violence and criminal activities associated with Mexican cartels, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has officially declared them as terrorist organizations. This designation aims to facilitate cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in combating the cartels' operations.
The declaration also allows for the implementation of additional legal tools, such as asset forfeiture and enhanced penalties for those found to be aiding or abetting the cartels. This move is expected to strengthen ongoing efforts to dismantle these criminal enterprises and protect communities on both sides of the border from the devastating impact of their activities.
The current border crisis presents a complex and multifaceted challenge for law enforcement professionals. The climbing number of fentanyl-related deaths and the trafficking of children have made it imperative for agencies at all levels to collaborate and share resources to address these pressing issues effectively.
As the situation continues to evolve, law enforcement professionals must remain vigilant and adapt to new threats and challenges posed by the border crisis. Combating the powerful and dangerous forces behind the trafficking of drugs and people requires a united front and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders involved in the fight against organized crime.