Texas has arrested thousands at the US-Mexico border as state expands powers to arrest migrants

The trespassing arrests are spearheaded by the Texas Department of Public Safety, which said the state’s border operation has resulted in more than 37,000 total criminal arrests.

Spokesperson Ericka Miller said those arrested included gang members, human traffickers, sex offenders and others.

NOVEMBER SAW NEARLY QUARTER OF A MILLION MIGRANT ENCOUNTERS AMID NEW BORDER SURGE

“Had we not been there, all of it likely would have crossed into the country unimpeded,” Miller told The Associated Press. “The state of Texas is working to send a message to those considering crossing into the country illegally to think again.”