The individual in question, Savion Johnson, was apprehended on Sunday for allegedly attempting to smuggle an illegal immigrant across the southern border. Johnson faces charges of smuggling of persons, evading arrest, and unlawful carry of a weapon, as reported by NewsNation.
In his interview with "America’s Newsroom" hosts Dana Perino and Bill Hemmer, Abbott condemned Johnson, labeling him a "traitor" for his actions. Abbott emphasized the state's efforts to combat illegal immigration, stating, "To have a member of the National Guard be involved in assisting illegal immigration is reprehensible." He highlighted the recent legislation he signed, which mandates a minimum 10-year prison sentence for those convicted of smuggling illegal immigrants.
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Abbott underscored the gravity of Johnson's actions, asserting, "This person is a traitor to the cause and mission of the National Guard." He warned potential offenders, stating, "If there is anybody who comes in and smuggles illegal immigrants, and you’re gonna be caught, you’re gonna be spending a long time behind bars in Texas."
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The Governor signed Senate Bill 4 into law on December 18, making illegal entry into Texas a state misdemeanor. However, the Justice Department has moved to challenge the enforcement of this law. According to data from the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Border Patrol agents have encountered 849,469 migrants so far in fiscal year 2024, following approximately 2 million encounters in fiscal year 2023.