Federal authorities have filed charges against dozens of individuals for entering a newly designated military area along the U.S.-Mexico border in New Mexico. The zone, part of a broader effort to increase security, has resulted in unauthorized entrants facing misdemeanor prosecution.
At least 82 people have been charged with unauthorized entry into the NEW MEXICO National Defense Areas, a crime punishable by up to one year in prison. The charges follow the transfer of federal land along the state's southern edge to the U.S. Army.
The area encompasses roughly 400 square miles, according to analysis by Source New Mexico. This designation contrasts with previous descriptions suggesting the military zone was limited to a 60-foot buffer.
The land was transferred to the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Huachuca, located in Arizona. This makes the designated border zone a military installation.
Defense officials state that anyone attempting to illegally enter this federally protected area is subject to detention. They argue that entry onto this specific land constitutes trespassing on Military Property, justifying detention by U.S. troops working alongside border patrol agents. This approach is presented as a way to manage unauthorized crossings and enhance border control efforts.
The administration has also established a second such zone on the Texas-Mexico border near El Paso, integrated into Fort Bliss. U.S. Northern Command General Gregory Guillot stated the second area increases operational reach for denying illegal activity.
Critics contend the designation and resulting detentions represent an overreach of executive authority and misuse of military resources for civilian law enforcement tasks. Rights groups have voiced concerns about the expansion of military power in border communities.
The designation relies on the president's national emergency declaration at the border. It allows federal troops to temporarily detain individuals and conduct limited searches within the zone.
