Border Patrol Chief Critiques LA Mayor’s Comments
Gregory Bovino, head of the Border Patrol for the El Centro Sector in California, expressed to Fox News that statements made by Democratic Mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, have made conditions for federal agents more challenging. During a recent interview on MSNBC with Rachel Maddow, Bass mentioned that Los Angeles has set up a “quick response network” to assist US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which she criticized for conducting “random snatches” of individuals throughout the city.
Bovino, responding to questions from guest host Brian Kilmeade, highlighted concerns over Bass’s choice of words, noting that such rhetoric complicates law enforcement efforts. “When I hear something like that, it certainly raises my concerns,” he stated, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced in Los Angeles.
The situation escalated in June when raids aimed at detaining illegal immigrants led to protests and violent disturbances in downtown Los Angeles. The unrest included significant looting and damage to vehicles and properties linked to anti-ICE demonstrations, which Bass attempted to downplay at the time.
Bovino declared that his agents, along with ICE, are striving to maintain “law and order” in the city, criticizing Bass for what he perceives as her financial support for individuals committing crimes. “Karen Bass is effectively compensating criminals to remain in her city,” he remarked. He contrasted this with Border Patrol policies, suggesting that if someone wants to leave the country, they should bear the costs themselves.
He further cautioned Bass to reconsider her public statements, warning that enforcement will be intensified in Los Angeles and other areas dealing with violent illegal immigrants. Since the increase in raids, Bass has opposed the policies of the Trump administration, demonstrating her stance during an immigration raid at MacArthur Park on July 7.
Upon her arrival at that scene, she urged federal agents to leave the area. Throughout several operations across Los Angeles, federal authorities have detained individuals previously convicted of serious crimes, including murder and drug offenses.
