By Steve Neavling
Two high-ranking Border Patrol officials are under investigation for reportedly partying in Mexico with a wealthy tequila mogul who sought to create a CBP-themed drink for the agency’s 100th anniversary.
Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens and Rio Grande Valley Border Sector Chief Gloria Chavez are accused of visiting distiller Francisco Javier González, the grandson of the founder of Don Julio, in Jalisco in February, NBC News reports.
CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility is investigating whether the top officials disclosed their contacts with a foreign national and if they accepted anything in violation of ethics rules.
Photos on social media show Owens and Chavez in Jalisco with González at Tequila Casa de los González, his family’s distillery complex.
González previously hosted a party for CBP leadership in Laredo, Tex., according to two Homeland Security officials.
The creation of a CBP-themed tequila has been put on hold while the investigation is ongoing.
A CBP spokesperson would not say whether the contact was disclosed or how they paid for travel.
“CBP has confidence in our senior leaders and holds them to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “Consistent with our commitment to accountability, we thoroughly investigate all allegations and take appropriate action to address any issues identified throughout the course of investigations. CBP will continue to reinforce our commitment to the agency’s standards at all levels.”
