In Laredo, Texas, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Supervisor Andres Wilkinson, 52, has been taken into federal custody facing charges of harboring a noncitizen within the United States. Wilkinson, a veteran of the agency since 2001 and a supervisor since 2021, is accused of maintaining a residence and providing financial support for Elva Edith Garcia-Vallejo, who allegedly overstayed a nonimmigrant visa. The visa had been issued for temporary tourism purposes in August 2023.
The case came to light after authorities conducted surveillance from June to November 2025, which reportedly confirmed that Garcia-Vallejo, along with her minor child, was living at Wilkinson's home. Investigators have also indicated that Wilkinson may have facilitated Garcia-Vallejo's passage through Border Patrol checkpoints by providing access to vehicles registered in his name.
Complicating matters further, there is speculation of a possible family connection between Wilkinson and Garcia-Vallejo, who might be his niece. However, no direct blood relationship has been established through the investigation thus far. Court documents suggest that the alleged romantic relationship began several months after Garcia-Vallejo moved into Wilkinson's home in August 2024.
If found guilty, Wilkinson could face a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. His actions, as outlined by prosecutors, seemingly contradict his responsibilities as a CBP supervisor, charged with the enforcement of immigration and customs laws.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Manuel Cardenas, who is prosecuting the case, underscored the gravity of the situation by stating, "This case underscores the importance of accountability for those entrusted with enforcing our nation’s immigration laws." The CBP Office of Professional Responsibility in Laredo led the investigation, which included meticulous review of surveillance footage, financial records, and travel logs.
Wilkinson's arrest forms part of Operation Take Back America, a federal initiative aimed at addressing illegal immigration, dismantling criminal networks, and reducing violent crime. The operation reflects the current administration's commitment to stricter immigration enforcement, expedited removal processes, and the prosecution of those who contravene immigration laws.
Wilkinson appeared in federal court this week and is being held in custody awaiting a detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brian Bajew. At this juncture, it remains unclear if Wilkinson has entered a plea, and requests for comment from attorneys representing Wilkinson and Garcia-Vallejo have gone unanswered.
Observers have noted that the case presents serious concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest and the adequacy of internal oversight within immigration enforcement agencies. The implications of such cases point to potential vulnerabilities in the monitoring and accountability mechanisms of federal law enforcement officers.
As legal experts weigh in, the outcome of Wilkinson's case may have a significant impact on CBP's supervisory and compliance enforcement policies going forward. Federal officials continue to emphasize the critical nature of adhering to immigration statutes and upholding professional conduct. The unfolding situation serves as a stark reminder of the complexities that can arise when personal relationships intersect with official duties, spotlighting the necessity for robust internal controls to ensure public trust in law enforcement operations.
