SAN DIEGO - U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to San Diego Sector encountered a U.S. citizen who entered the United States between designated ports of entry near Mine Canyon on October 15. The individual was assessed a $5,000 civil penalty and arrested on an active felony warrant.

At approximately 2 p.m., agents encountered the individual after he illegally crossed the international boundary near Dulzura, CA. The individual initially claimed U.S. citizenship but did not possess documents or identification to verify the claim.

Record checks later confirmed the individual's identity and U.S. citizenship. The checks also revealed an active felony warrant issued by the Los Angeles Police Department related to an alleged domestic-violence offense.

Although the individual was a U.S. citizen, entry into the United States at a location other than a designated port of entry violated federal law. U.S. Customs and Border Protection assessed a $5,000 civil penalty under 19 U.S.C. § 1459.

Following the civil penalty, the individual was transferred to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department for booking on the outstanding warrant. "United States citizenship does not exempt anyone from the requirement to enter our country through a designated port of entry," said Justin M. De La Torre, chief patrol agent for U.S. Border Patrol San Diego Sector. "Entry between ports is illegal and carries consequences. Our agents remain committed to enforcing immigration and customs laws while identifying individuals who may pose a threat to public safety."

To prevent the illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on corridors of egress away from our Nation's borders. To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline: the nation's largest law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency. The 70,000+ men and women of CBP protect America on the ground, in the air and on the seas. We enforce safe, lawful travel and trade and ensure our country's economic prosperity. We enhance the nation's security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration and trust.

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