Illegal Border Crossings and Asylum Processing

SOURCE www.npr.org
Arrests for illegal border crossings dropped more than 40% during the three weeks that asylum processing has been suspended by the Homeland Security Department.

Key Points

  • Arrests for illegal border crossings have dropped more than 40% since asylum processing suspension
  • Average daily arrests by Border Patrol have fallen below 2,400
  • Suspension takes effect when daily arrests are above 2,500
  • Individuals expressing fear or intent to seek asylum are screened at a higher standard

Pros

  • Decrease in illegal border crossings
  • Increased scrutiny on asylum claims

Cons

  • Legal challenges from advocacy groups