Galveston County Deputies to Return Home as Border Arrests Decline

Galveston County will conclude its deployment of sheriff’s deputies and constables to the Texas-Mexico border in April, attributing this decision to a significant reduction in illegal crossings. County Judge Mark Henry has announced that the last two deputies supporting Kinney County’s sheriff’s office will return by the end of March.

In July 2021, the county initiated the distribution of resources following a disaster declaration, which enabled involvement in Governor Greg Abbott’s Operation Lone Star. The initiative utilized state and federal funds to assist rural border counties overwhelmed by record-high immigration and smuggling activity. Henry has confirmed that he will cancel the declaration next month, effectively ending Galveston County’s involvement in border enforcement.

The decision comes in light of a notable decrease in border arrests. In February 2025, U.S. authorities documented fewer than 9,000 apprehensions under President Donald Trump, in contrast to 140,000 in February 2024 during President Joe Biden’s administration. At their peak, monthly totals surpassed 200,000 arrests.

Governor Abbott has announced the closure of a jail facility in Jim Hogg County, which was set up in 2022 to handle border-related arrests. A second facility in Val Verde County will continue to operate.

Henry highlighted that although Galveston County supported smaller rural counties in their time of need, the current improved circumstances enable deputies to return home full-time. “It’s reassuring to know it’s finally under control,” Henry remarked. “This is a victory for border security and our community.”

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