Two U.S. border patrol officers have been charged with accepting bribes to allow undocumented migrants into the country, on Thursday April 3, 2025.
According to media report, the officers, Farlis Almonte and Ricardo Rodriguez, worked at the San Ysidro Port of Entry in Southern California.
Federal prosecutors said both men received thousands of dollars to wave through vehicles carrying undocumented individuals.
Investigators found evidence of text messages between the officers and human traffickers based in Mexico.
Authorities also uncovered unexplained large cash deposits in the officers’ personal bank accounts.
Surveillance footage captured one vehicle entering the U.S. with two occupants, but only one was officially recorded.
Prosecutors said the officers allowed dozens of undocumented migrants to cross without inspection.
Each vehicle allegedly brought a cash payment in exchange for passage without documents.
The criminal complaint was unsealed Thursday in a U.S. federal court.
The investigation began after three migrant smugglers were arrested last year.
The smugglers told federal agents they had worked directly with U.S. border officers.
Rodriguez’s attorney, Michael Hawkins, confirmed his client’s involvement in the case.
Hawkins said the matter is still in its early stages.
He described Rodriguez as loyal and hardworking, stressing his presumption of innocence.
Almonte has not publicly responded, and it is unclear if he has legal representation.
The Border Patrol officers’ union has not issued any public statement.
While in custody, investigators searched Almonte’s home and seized nearly $70,000 in cash.
Prosecutors allege the money was being moved to Tijuana by Almonte’s romantic partner.
They also indicated Almonte may face additional charges for money laundering and obstruction of justice.
Officials say investigations are still ongoing and more charges could follow.
Authorities have not disclosed how long the alleged smuggling activity occurred.
The case has raised fresh concerns over corruption at U.S. border checkpoints.
