The Journey of Border Crossing: What Happens If You Are Caught?

Border crossing is a complex and often fraught journey. Whether you are a U.S. citizen or an alien, the experience of crossing the border can vary significantly, especially depending on the policies and political landscape. This article delves into what happens when you are caught entering the United States by the U.S. Border Patrol. It also explores the current treatment of asylum seekers under different presidents and the potential outcomes you might face.

US Border Patrol: What If You Are Caught?

When you are caught crossing the border by the U.S. Border Patrol, the first step is to be sent to the nearest Port of Entry. This process will differ based on your citizenship or immigration status:

U.S. Citizens: You will typically be inspected and, if necessary, face minor fines. However, the exact outcome can depend on the specific circumstances and any legal issues in the past. Aliens: Your status as an alien, or non-U.S. citizen, means a more thorough examination. This process often involves interviews and may result in detention. Aliens may also receive fines or face more severe consequences.

The treatment given to those caught by the U.S. Border Patrol has evolved under different administrations. The current administration, under President Biden, has introduced a more compassionate approach, offering asylum seekers certain protections and benefits. Under the Trump administration, the policy was decidedly more stringent, often resulting in deportation back to Mexico and rigorous checks on future entry.

Asylum Seekers and Freedom of Movement Under Biden and Trump

Under the Biden presidency, the treatment of asylum seekers has significantly changed. Those who claim asylum are often given the following benefits:

Asylum Eligibility: They are interviewed for a couple of hours and then given a bus ticket to a U.S. city of their choice. Upon arrival, new asylum seekers receive a monthly stipend of $3300, along with free housing and medical care. There might be a court date to review the asylum claim, but there is little enforcement to ensure attendance. Missing Payments: If payments are not collected, the asylum seeker's check might be stopped.

Alternatively, under the Trump administration, asylum seekers faced deportation and were required to wait in Mexico while their claims were reviewed. They did not receive any stipend or other benefits during this period.

The Broader Impact on Immigration Policies

The treatment of immigrants and asylum seekers has had a significant impact on immigration policies in the U.S. The U.S. government has been accused of using taxpayer funds to provide support and services to these individuals, increasing the financial burden on the nation.

Admission to the U.S. as an asylum seeker can come with a series of safeguards. You may be provided:

Mobile Devices: Cell phones, tablets, and smartphone accessories are often given to facilitate communication with the legal system and family. Misinformation Assimilation: Free coffee and tacos, among other items, are given to help quell tension and stress associated with the experience. Legal Support: You may be issued a new driver’s license and ID, and receive legal support to navigate the asylum process. Detention Centers: In some cases, you might be detained at facilities like those located at 1969 Ridge Rd Champlain, NY. These facilities house individuals awaiting review of their asylum claims and other legal actions.

Once detained, you will have your biometric data taken, like fingerprints and a photograph, to establish your identity and track potential legal actions.

A Real-Life Account

I attempted to enter the United States via a dirt bike from southern Quebec at night. I drove off the Mnt Glass road, approximately 1 km west of Blackpool, into a cornfield on the Canadian side. After crossing the border, I continued on through a cornfield on the U.S. side. Eventually, I reached North Star Road in upstate New York. At this point, my bike stalled. That's when I noticed a white vehicle nearby and a flashlight aimed at me. I was surprised to see a man speaking Spanish, asking me to raise my hands. After a police SUV arrived, I was handcuffed, placed in the back of the vehicle, and taken to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility at 1969 Ridge Rd Champlain, NY. There, my biometric data were taken for record-keeping.

This case study highlights the potential outcomes of border crossing and the subsequent actions by the U.S. Border Patrol and other authorities.

The U.S. border crossing experience is fluid and can vary widely based on political shifts and administrative policies. The treatment of those caught crossing the border has changed under different administrations, but it remains a sensitive and highly regulated process.