A former border protection officer is facing federal charges after investigators linked him to a cartel-run smuggling operation at the U.S.-Mexico border. Authorities say Manuel Perez Jr., 32, used his role at an El Paso crossing to facilitate illegal entries and drug shipments in exchange for cash.
Perez was arrested on February 8 following an FBI-led investigation into border corruption. Prosecutors claim he was associated with La Linea, a cartel operating in Juárez, and used his position at the Paso Del Norte international bridge to allow unauthorized crossings for a fee.
"El Paso CBP officer arrested for human smuggling was allegedly in Mexican drug cartel"
Manuel Perez, former CBP Officer, jailed and denied parole.
A fox guarding a hen house.
Does the absurdity ever end…#Border #CORRUPTION #CBP pic.twitter.com/LNCQysZuiJ
— Jennifer Coffindaffer (@CoffindafferFBI) February 15, 2025
Court documents reveal that Perez allegedly charged $2,500 per migrant for passage through his lane, generating an estimated $400,000 in illicit profits. Smugglers were recorded assuring clients that crossings through his checkpoint were “100% guaranteed.”
WHERE IS THE STORY about the CBP Officer Manuel Perez Jr who was a member of the La Linea drug cartel, smuggling humans? I can't find it.
— Carpe Diem (@SwampDrainDC) February 14, 2025
In addition to human smuggling, prosecutors allege Perez was involved in drug trafficking, assisting in the transport of at least 8 kilograms of cocaine to locations in Louisiana and North Carolina. Investigators say he received $20,000 for his role in the drug operation, with electronic surveillance confirming his involvement.
CBP Officer Arrested for Alleged Cartel Smuggling.
A U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer accused of smuggling migrants at the El Paso, Texas, border was allegedly a member of a Mexican drug cartel, a federal agent testified Thursday.
Manuel Perez Jr., 32, was arrested…— Lance (@LanceMahan56338) February 14, 2025
During a search of his residence in Juárez, authorities found $18,000 in cash. Witnesses reported that he spent most of his free time in Mexico, carried weapons frequently, and allegedly wanted to be arrested in Mexico so he could continue criminal activities from prison.
A federal judge ruled Perez must remain behind bars while awaiting trial, citing his cartel ties and the likelihood he would flee. If convicted, he faces a minimum sentence of 10 years, with the possibility of life in prison. His defense attorney claims the case relies on questionable witnesses seeking leniency in their own cases.
