A former U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer is facing federal charges after investigators uncovered his alleged involvement in a smuggling ring connected to a Mexican cartel. Federal prosecutors say Manuel Perez Jr., 32, used his position at an El Paso border crossing to allow illegal migrants and narcotics into the U.S. in exchange for payments.
Perez was arrested on February 8 following an FBI-led investigation. He was denied bond by a federal magistrate judge, who cited his potential flight risk and deep connections to criminal organizations. Prosecutors allege that Perez worked directly with La Linea, a cartel with influence in Juárez’s drug trade.
"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
Authorities say the smuggling operation involved charging migrants $2,500 each to pass through Perez’s inspection lane at the Paso Del Norte international bridge. They estimate he may have collected up to $400,000 since the scheme began in December 2023. Intercepted phone calls allegedly revealed smugglers promising clients guaranteed passage, claiming they had an officer on their payroll.
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, Perez is accused of helping transport at least 8 kilograms of cocaine across state lines, with destinations in Louisiana and North Carolina. Investigators say license plate readers and hotel records confirmed his connection to drug trafficking routes. He reportedly admitted to receiving a $20,000 payment for the operation.
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 discovered $18,000 in cash. Witnesses told investigators that Perez spent more than 80% of his time in Mexico when off duty and was often armed, even while sleeping.
If convicted, Perez faces a minimum of 10 years in federal prison, with the possibility of a life sentence. His defense attorney has challenged the reliability of the witnesses, arguing they are cooperating in hopes of reducing their own charges.
