In a clear display of border vigilance, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Del Rio Port of Entry recently detained a U.S. citizen, Victor Morales, wanted on multiple serious charges. The arrest was part of the officers' border security mission, which involves a steadfast effort to intercept individuals attempting to evade the law.
The fugitive, identified as a 31-year-old male, was wanted for an alleged sexual assault of a child and drug-related offenses in North Texas. "Our frontline CBP officers continue to maintain their vigilance and late this week apprehended a traveler wanted on two separate felony warrants for sex and drug-related charges," Port Director Liliana Flores stated in an announcement by the Del Rio Port of Entry. The interception took place at the Del Rio International Bridge on Thursday during a routine check, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The arrest ensued after Morales was referred for a secondary inspection where CBP officers conducted biometric verification against law enforcement databases confirming the outstanding felony warrant for aggravated sexual assault of a child, issued by the White Settlement Police Department, and a separate warrant for drug possession from the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office. He was thereafter handed over to local authorities, specifically the Del Rio Police Department, for further legal proceedings.
CBP's access to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database aids in such interdictions, with the law enforcement tool housing information like outstanding warrants for a wide range of offences. Despite the serious nature of allegations, it is important to remember, as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection highlights, "Criminal charges are merely allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law."
