Acting Deputy Chief of the US Border Patrol, Joel Martinez, has been placed on administrative leave due to allegations of misconduct, as confirmed by a source familiar with the matter. The nature of the alleged misconduct has not been disclosed, but an investigation is currently underway.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) spokesperson Erin Waters emphasized the agency’s commitment to upholding integrity within its ranks. “We do not tolerate misconduct within our ranks,” Waters stated.
She further explained that any allegations or suspicions of misconduct are promptly referred for investigation, and the agency fully cooperates with both criminal and administrative inquiries.
Border Patrol Officer (Credits: KGNS)
Waters noted that this protocol applies regardless of whether the alleged misconduct occurs on or off duty, and federal privacy laws restrict discussion of individual cases.
The suspension of Martinez was initially reported by The Washington Post. Martinez, who boasts a 31-year tenure with the Border Patrol, has previously held positions such as Chief Patrol Agent of the Laredo Sector and Deputy Chief Patrol Agent of the Rio Grande Valley Sector, according to CBP records.
The US Border Patrol operates as a law enforcement agency within the broader framework of CBP, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security.
