Border Security Through Technology and Manpower

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It was reported in the San Antonio Express News that “Border-Patrolling Drones Would Call Texas Base Home.” Lynn Brezosky reported that “U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Alan Bersin cut the ribbon for the launch of the nation’s fourth base for operating border surveillance drones.” This is important in securing the U.S.-Mexico border, which the U.S. has an approximate 1,933 mile long border with Mexico (Beaver). Brezosky also reported that “the Homeland Security budget called for two drones for Texas.” The new drones in Texas are another step towards securing the U.S. border with Mexico. On the other hand, the so called “border fence” is producing less than favorable results. The issue of border security is not confined to the State of Texas. Every state that has a border with Mexico currently has problems with its border security in more ways than one. Their problems are very similar: drug smugglers, drug cartel wars and killings, and many illegal migrants freely crossing the border (Holt 4). Many of the migrants are just looking to improve their life and provide for their family; but some are unruly and have criminal backgrounds. These issues not only affect each state in different ways, but also the entire nation. With the fence failing in its purpose, the solution to improving the U.S.-Mexico border is utilizing technology like unmanned drones, cameras, and increased amount of Border Patrol agents. The border fence goes all the way back to 1996, more than a decade ago (Miller 2). The government wanted to reduce the amount of illegal immigrants and illegal drugs coming across the border. According to Nicole Miller, the Department of Homeland Security was given task to build the fence; and they wer... ... middle of paper ... ...is Cynical Style.” Houston Cronicle. Hearst Communication Inc. 15 May. 2011. Web. 05 Dec. 2011. Miller, Nicole. “How Property Rights are Affected by the Texas-Mexico Border Fence: A Failure Due to Insufficient Procedure.” Texas International Law Journal 45.3 (2011): 1-25. Academic Search Complete. Web. 15 Nov. 2011. “Spartan Unmanned Surface Vehicle Scouts Persian Gulf.” Sea Power 47.2 (2004): 1-1. Academic Search Complete. Web. 09 Dec. 2011. Seper, Jerry. “Border Patrol Seeking Help from Public; Targeting Smugglers of Aliens and Drugs.” The Washington Times. n.p. 31 March. 2005. Gale Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. 09 Dec. 2011. "Unmanned Military Aircraft." Issues & Controversies On File: n. pag. Issues & Controversies. . Facts On File News Services, 23 May 2003. Web. 10 Dec. 2011. .

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