By Steve Neavling
A CBP officer has been charged with human smuggling and drug trafficking, federal court records show.
Manuel Perez, who worked at the Paso del Norte port of entry in El Paso, faces multiple felony counts that could result in decades behind bars if convicted, according to KFOX14/CBS4. Prosecutors say Perez exploited his position to smuggle drugs and undocumented migrants into the U.S., with the alleged crimes stretching back to 2019.
The case centers on a gray Nissan Pathfinder that Perez allegedly allowed into the U.S. multiple times, beginning in December 2023, when it carried an undocumented migrant across the border. Court documents allege the same vehicle passed through the checkpoint again in January, May, and August of 2024, each time transporting undocumented passengers.
In November 2024, Perez allegedly permitted the vehicle to enter with three undocumented migrants — two adults and a child.
Perez is charged with conspiracy to bring migrants into the U.S. for financial gain, three counts of bringing migrants into the U.S. for financial gain, and conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute. The drug charge involves five kilograms of cocaine and carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison.
“To traffic drugs and smuggle humans while wearing the badge is not only a disgusting betrayal of our patriotic Customs and Border Protection officers but of our nation and the American people,” Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement. “Manuel Perez will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Matthew James Kozik, an El Paso defense attorney and former Army prosecutor, said the charges are serious and point to a pattern of ongoing criminal behavior.
“The conspiracy charges alone carry up to 10 years in prison, and the drug charge has a mandatory minimum of 10 years,” Kozik said. “If the judge imposes consecutive sentences, Perez could face significantly more time.”
Kozik said federal prosecutors are likely to send a strong message with this case. “The Department of Justice will want to make an example here. This is the kind of case that sends a clear warning—if you engage in this type of activity, you will be held accountable.”
Customs and Border Protection declined to comment on the case.
The investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected in the coming weeks.
