CBP (Customs and Border Protection)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the largest federal law enforcement agency in the United States, operating under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). CBP is responsible for securing the nation's borders — both at and between official ports of entry — and facilitating lawful international trade and travel.

CBP encompasses several operational components. The Office of Field Operations (OFO) manages the 328 official ports of entry, including land border crossings, airports, and seaports. U.S. Border Patrol is responsible for securing the areas between ports of entry, primarily along the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders. The Air and Marine Operations division provides air and marine support.

When CBP encounters individuals attempting to enter the U.S. without authorization or without proper documentation, the agency processes these "encounters" and determines initial disposition — which may include apprehension, expulsion, or referral to immigration court. CBP officers issue Notices to Appear (NTAs) that initiate removal proceedings and conduct credible fear screenings for individuals expressing fear of return.

CBP encounter data is one of the most closely watched immigration metrics. In recent fiscal years, CBP has recorded over 2 million encounters annually at the southern border, though these numbers include repeat crossings by the same individuals. Encounter statistics are published monthly and are frequently cited in policy debates.

CBP has approximately 60,000 employees, including roughly 20,000 Border Patrol agents and 27,000 CBP officers, making it a massive operational force with significant impact on immigration court caseloads.