A U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) supervisor in Texas has been arrested after allegedly harboring an illegal alien with whom he reportedly had a romantic relationship—sparking serious questions about oversight and accountability in federal immigration enforcement.
Andres Wilkinson, 52, who has worked for CBP since 2001 and was promoted to supervisor in 2021, faces federal charges after allegedly allowing Elva Edith Garcia-Vallejo to reside in his Laredo home despite knowing she was in the country illegally.
Court filings indicate she overstayed a nonimmigrant visa issued in August 2023, which allowed her to travel to the United States temporarily for tourism.
Authorities say Wilkinson provided Garcia-Vallejo with housing, financial support, access to vehicles registered in his name, and even assisted her through Border Patrol checkpoints.
Surveillance conducted between June and November 2025 reportedly confirmed that Garcia-Vallejo and her minor child lived at Wilkinson’s residence during that time, WRGA reported.
A complicating factor is a possible family connection.
Records indicate Garcia-Vallejo may be Wilkinson’s niece, although investigators have found no evidence of a direct blood relationship.
Court documents suggest the romantic relationship began after she moved into his home in August 2024, several months after arriving in the U.S., according to The Guardian.
If convicted, Wilkinson could face up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.
According to Texas Border Business, prosecutors emphasized that his alleged actions directly contravened his duties, which include enforcing immigration and customs laws at the local and national levels.
“This case underscores the importance of accountability for those entrusted with enforcing our nation’s immigration laws,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Manuel Cardenas, who is prosecuting the case.
The CBP Office of Professional Responsibility in Laredo conducted the investigation, which authorities say included reviewing surveillance footage, financial records, and travel logs.
The arrest is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative targeting illegal immigration, criminal networks, and violent crime.
Officials say the program reflects a broader emphasis on stricter enforcement, faster removal proceedings, and the prosecution of individuals who violate immigration statutes or harbor illegal aliens.
Wilkinson appeared in federal court this week and remains in custody pending a detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brian Bajew.
It is not yet clear whether he has entered a plea. Attorneys for both Wilkinson and Garcia-Vallejo have not responded to requests for comment, the Washington Examiner noted.
Observers note the case raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and internal oversight within immigration agencies.
Allegations that officers charged with enforcing federal law may facilitate illegal residency highlight weaknesses in monitoring and accountability.
Legal experts suggest the outcome of Wilkinson’s case could influence CBP policies for supervising personnel and enforcing compliance nationwide.
As the investigation continues, federal officials stress the importance of adherence to immigration statutes and professional conduct.
The case illustrates challenges when personal relationships intersect with official responsibilities, underscoring the need for strict internal controls to maintain public trust in federal enforcement operations.
