In a decisive move to address the escalating border crisis, the State of Texas has exercised its emergency powers under the leadership of Governor Greg Abbott. On January 11th, 2024, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) took control of Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, a strategic location on the banks of the Rio Grande.
The park, encompassing 47 acres adjacent to a critical section of the river, is now under the exclusive jurisdiction of state authorities. This bold action was taken against the backdrop of increasing illegal crossings and the federal government’s perceived failure to secure the southern border.
🚨BREAKING: TX National Guard has deployed armed soldiers and vehicles to block Federal Government from accessing the river in Eagle Pass.
TX informed them that Border Patrol agents won’t be allowed to enter Shelby Park in any operational capacity.
The state of Texas has… pic.twitter.com/rif0m3R7Wi
— I Meme Therefore I Am 🇺🇸 (@ImMeme0) January 12, 2024
Eagle Pass Mayor Rolando Salinas publicly expressed his disapproval, stating that the city did not consent to this measure. Despite local officials’ reservations, the state maintains that the takeover is essential for preventing illegal immigration and ensuring public safety.
The DPS has been arresting individuals for criminal trespass for months, a policy that predates the new illegal entry law, SB4. The state’s strategy includes arresting all who cross illegally into Texas, a clear message that lawlessness will not be tolerated.
Amazing.
Military denying border control entry out in Eagle Pass.
This should have been done 3 years ago.
pic.twitter.com/Es4tlfziH4— Woke Societies (@wokesocieties) January 12, 2024
This intervention by Texas comes amid reports of a staggering influx of over 11 million undocumented immigrants since January 2021. Eagle Pass has been identified as one of the most vulnerable points of entry, with numerous instances of women and children being rescued from the perilous waters of the Rio Grande.
In November of 2023, the Tactical Marine Unit of the DPS was involved in several life-saving operations. They provided personal flotation devices, rescued individuals from drowning, and even performed CPR on those in critical condition. These harrowing scenes underscore the gravity of the situation at the border.
Access to the seized property is now restricted, with Border Patrol agents only allowed entry for medical emergencies or to retrieve their equipment. This unprecedented move signifies Texas’ commitment to taking charge of its border security and enforcing the rule of law.
Governor Abbott’s emergency declaration reflects a broader sentiment among many Texans: that the state must act when the federal response is deemed inadequate. As the situation develops, all eyes are on Texas as it stands firm in its resolve to protect its citizens and uphold its sovereignty in the face of an ongoing crisis.
