San Diego Illegal Immigrant Center Shuts Down After Dramatic Drop in Crossings

Historic Decline Leads to Facility Closure

A significant milestone in border security has been achieved in San Diego, where a massive 1,000-person illegal immigrant processing facility has been dismantled due to an unprecedented decrease in illegal border crossings. U.S. Border Patrol officials have reported a staggering 96 percent decline in illegal crossings in the San Diego Sector, prompting the closure of the soft-sided facility over the weekend of May 25. This development reflects a sharp turnaround in migration trends along the southwest border.

Jeffrey Stalnakerin, acting Chief Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector, highlighted the achievement in a social media post on May 25, stating, 'Due to the unprecedented decrease in illegal crossings this year, the massive 1,000 person, San Diego Sector Soft Sided Facility has been dismantled.' The closure marks a notable shift in operational needs, allowing resources to be redirected toward other border security priorities.

Financial Savings and Resource Reallocation

The decommissioning of the San Diego facility is not only a win for border enforcement but also for fiscal responsibility. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) estimates that each closed temporary processing facility along the southwest border saves between $5 million and $30 million per month. These savings are substantial, freeing up taxpayer funds for enhanced security measures and other critical needs.

CBP has closed several such facilities in recent months, reflecting a broader trend of declining illegal crossings across multiple sectors. The redirection of these funds underscores a commitment to efficient use of resources while maintaining a strong stance on border protection. This approach ensures that financial resources are aligned with current operational demands rather than maintaining unused infrastructure.

Policy Impact and Border Security Focus

Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, the administration has prioritized robust border enforcement, which officials credit for the dramatic reduction in illegal crossings. The San Diego Sector, once a hotspot for migrant encounters, has seen daily apprehensions drop significantly, with some reports indicating a decrease from over 1,200 to just 30-40 per day. This shift demonstrates the effectiveness of current policies in deterring unlawful entry.

The closure of the migrant processing center is seen as a direct result of these stringent measures, which emphasize security and lawful pathways for migration. CBP continues to adjust its operational plans to maximize enforcement efforts, ensuring that resources are focused on preventing illegal crossings rather than processing large numbers of migrants. This strategic focus aims to maintain safety and order along the border for American citizens.