Federal prosecutors have charged a former border officer with human and drug smuggling after an investigation revealed alleged ties to a cartel operating in Juárez. Authorities claim that Manuel Perez Jr., 32, exploited his position to allow unauthorized border crossings and facilitate narcotics shipments.
Perez was arrested on February 8 following an FBI-led probe into corruption at the U.S.-Mexico border. He is accused of working closely with La Linea, a cartel known for its involvement in drug trafficking. A federal judge determined that he was a flight risk and ordered him to remain in custody.
Investigators say Perez was paid $2,500 per person to let migrants pass through his inspection lane at the Paso Del Norte bridge. Prosecutors estimate that he may have made up to $400,000 from the arrangement, which allegedly began in late 2023. Smugglers reportedly claimed in intercepted communications that his cooperation made crossings “100% guaranteed.”
"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
In addition to human smuggling, Perez is suspected of participating in drug trafficking operations. Authorities allege that he helped transport at least 8 kilograms of cocaine to multiple states, including Louisiana and North Carolina. Surveillance records and financial transactions reportedly link him to the operation.
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
During a search of his Juárez residence, agents discovered $18,000 in cash. Prosecutors stated that witnesses reported he spent most of his time in Mexico and often carried a weapon. Some informants alleged that he sought to be detained in Mexico to maintain his criminal ties while incarcerated.
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
If convicted, Perez faces a minimum of 10 years in prison, with the possibility of a life sentence. His defense team has challenged the credibility of witnesses, claiming they are cooperating with authorities in hopes of reducing their own sentences.
