Concerns rise over increase in illegal border crossings in Northern New York
The Swanton Sector has recorded more than 2,500 individuals caught attempting to cross the border illegally this year
The Swanton Sector has recorded more than 2,500 individuals caught attempting to cross the border illegally this year
The Swanton Sector has recorded more than 2,500 individuals caught attempting to cross the border illegally this year
The North Country, serving as a notable port of entry for individuals entering the U.S. from Canada, has been experiencing an alarming increase in illegal border encounters this year, raising concerns among both officials and residents.
Heather Baker, who works at Best Friends Family Diner, located right next to the Rouses Point port of entry, has witnessed a surge in migrants coming to the village, with some even stopping by the diner. This influx is deeply concerning to her, especially considering the risks it poses to rescue personnel.
"It puts a lot of our rescue people in danger. We're constantly having to pull them [migrants] out of the swamps. As I mentioned, a lot of the immigrants that come through are getting injured and losing their lives in the process," Baker said.
Already this year, the Swanton Sector has recorded more than 2,500 individuals caught attempting to cross the border illegally. While there has been only one reported immigration-related arrest in Rouses Point this year, the situation is worrying.
The town and villages of Champlain and Rouses Point, located on the border, rely on the county sheriff's department, state police, and U.S. Border Patrol to address any issues, as they do not have local police departments.
Christopher Laremore, the Clerk/Administrator of the Village of Rouses Point, highlighted the security concerns arising from increased illegal immigration traffic in the village.
"Especially with the increased illegal immigration traffic here in the village. And so I do feel that it is a security problem here in the village," Laremore stated.
While state leaders insist that immigration issues should be handled by the federal government, local neighbors and officials argue that action should also be taken at the state and local levels.
"We need to be more in communication with the federal government and the New York State need to be more in communication with each other," Baker emphasized.
Laremore echoed similar sentiments, stating, "All law enforcement agencies should step forward, whether it be a local, state, or county or federal."
Village officials say there are plans for renovations at the Rouses Point port of entry later this year to address the rise in illegal crossings.