Ciscomani Reintroduces Bill Cracking Down on Cartel Spotters

Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) has reintroduced legislation stiffening penalties for aiding the Mexican drug cartels along the border as a "spotter," saying the bill "sends a powerful message to anyone who is aiding or abetting cartel operations that they will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law."

Within the context of the cartels operating along the southern border, spotters look for gaps and pay attention to the routines of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents so criminals can cross more easily and evade detection.

As a result, Rep. Ciscomani's "Transnational Criminal Organization Illicit Spotter Prevention and Elimination" Act, first introduced in May 2023, would impose a minimum ten-year sentence on individuals convicted of engaging in spotting for criminal organizations (like the cartels) such as relaying information about law enforcement movement or activity, interfering with electronic devices owned and operated by law enforcement, and carrying or using a firearm while participating in a human trafficking offense.

In his press release, the Arizona Congressman said, "Drug cartels and other bad actors have developed increasingly sophisticated efforts to evade Customs and Border Protection agents and local law enforcement officers at the southern border."

Moreover, he described how Border Patrol agents have told him there is an "urgent need to go after "spotters" who help Transnational Criminal Organizations avoid law enforcement by surveilling portions of the border and communicating their positions."

"This bill, which I am proud to lead again in the House, would increase punishments on spotters and sends a powerful message to anyone who is aiding or abetting cartel operations that they will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law," Ciscomani concluded.

Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), who introduced the Senate version of the bill, also said, "I'm putting cartels on notice – the era of open borders is over. Republicans are restoring law and order and securing the homeland by giving Border Patrol the tools they need to do their job and creating real consequences for criminals. We are going to protect Americans."