Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be overwhelming, especially when a loved one is taken into Border Patrol custody. Whether it’s a recent arrest at the border or a transfer to a detention center, families often face uncertainty, fear, and a lack of clear information. That’s why understanding the process is crucial — and why TEZ Law Firm is here to guide you every step of the way.
In this blog, we’ll explain what Border Patrol custody entails, how to locate someone detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and what legal options are available for release. If you’re currently looking to find someone in custody, visit our detailed guide here: https://tezlawfirm.com/finding-someone-in-cbp-custody/.
What Is Border Patrol Custody?
When a person crosses the U.S. border without proper documentation or is suspected of immigration violations, they are often detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This initial detention is referred to as Border Patrol custody.
CBP is responsible for securing the U.S. borders and enforcing immigration laws. People in their custody may be:
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Asylum seekers
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Individuals caught crossing the border unlawfully
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Visa holders violating their terms of stay
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Individuals flagged for criminal or immigration violations
Detention by Border Patrol typically occurs near U.S. borders — particularly in states like Texas, Arizona, and California.
What Happens After Someone Is Detained by Border Patrol?
After apprehension, individuals are placed in CBP custody — often in short-term holding facilities known as “hieleras” (Spanish for “ice boxes”) due to their extremely cold conditions. Detainees are supposed to be held in these facilities for no longer than 72 hours, though that timeline is not always followed.
After initial processing, detainees may be:
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Released on parole
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Given a Notice to Appear (NTA) in immigration court
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Transferred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
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Deported (especially in cases involving expedited removal)
How to Find Someone in Border Patrol Custody
If your loved one has been detained, the first priority is locating them. Unfortunately, CBP does not have a public detainee locator system like ICE. This can make the process incredibly stressful.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Contact Local Border Patrol Stations
Begin by identifying and contacting the CBP stations closest to where the individual was last seen or apprehended. Ask if they have the person in custody. Be ready to provide:
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Full name
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Date of birth
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Country of origin
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Date and place of apprehension
2. Check the ICE Detainee Locator
If the person has been transferred to ICE custody, they will appear in the ICE Detainee Locator System:
If their name appears, this indicates they are no longer in Border Patrol custody but under ICE detention.
3. Call the Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO)
The OIDO may help locate individuals and resolve issues involving mistreatment or abuse in detention.
Why It’s So Hard to Find Someone in CBP Custody
There are several reasons why families have trouble locating individuals in Border Patrol custody:
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No centralized database: Unlike ICE, CBP doesn’t maintain an online detainee search tool.
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Rapid transfers: Detainees may be moved between facilities quickly, sometimes within hours.
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Communication barriers: Many detainees cannot make phone calls or are not informed of their rights.
At TEZ Law Firm, we understand how frustrating and frightening this process can be. That’s why we offer full support for families trying to find someone in CBP custody. Visit our guide for more help: https://tezlawfirm.com/finding-someone-in-cbp-custody/
Legal Rights of Individuals in Border Patrol Custody
It’s important to know that everyone — regardless of immigration status — has certain basic rights when detained by Border Patrol:
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Right to remain silent: Detainees are not required to answer questions about immigration status or history.
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Right to an attorney: While the government is not required to provide one, detainees may hire a private immigration attorney.
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Right to due process: This includes the right to challenge removal or request asylum.
Unfortunately, in CBP custody, these rights are not always respected. Legal representation can make a significant difference — and that’s where TEZ Law Firm can help.
TEZ Law Firm: Helping You Navigate Border Patrol Custody
At TEZ Law Firm, we’ve helped hundreds of families find and advocate for loved ones detained by CBP and ICE. We provide:
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Rapid detainee location services
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Legal representation for bond hearings
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Asylum and immigration court defense
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Family reunification support
We understand the human impact of immigration enforcement. Our mission is to ensure that every person — regardless of status — is treated with dignity and has a fair chance at justice.
If you’re struggling to find someone in Border Patrol custody, don’t wait. Reach out to TEZ Law Firm or visit our dedicated page here: https://tezlawfirm.com/finding-someone-in-cbp-custody/
What to Do After Locating Someone in Custody
Once you find out where your loved one is being held, here’s what to do next:
1. Contact an Immigration Attorney
An experienced immigration lawyer can assess the case, prepare for bond hearings, and advocate for release. TEZ Law Firm offers consultations and emergency case handling.
2. Gather Documents
You may need to provide:
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Passport or ID
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Proof of U.S. address
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Financial support documents (for bond hearings)
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Evidence for asylum or deportation defense
3. Stay Informed
Stay in contact with the facility or CBP station and track any changes in custody status. Be prepared for sudden transfers or court appearances.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Many families make the mistake of waiting too long to seek legal help. Others provide incorrect or incomplete information, which can delay location efforts. Here are a few tips:
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Act quickly: Time is critical in the first 72 hours after detention.
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Be accurate: Double-check names, spellings, and dates.
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Know your rights: Don’t sign documents without understanding their implications.
Conclusion
Dealing with Border Patrol custody is one of the most difficult situations families face in the U.S. immigration system. With limited transparency, fast-paced transfers, and legal complexity, it’s easy to feel lost. But you don’t have to go through it alone.
TEZ Law Firm is committed to helping you find your loved one, protect their rights, and fight for their future. Whether it’s navigating CBP detention, ICE transfer, or immigration court, we’re by your side.
Visit our in-depth resource here:
👉 https://tezlawfirm.com/finding-someone-in-cbp-custody/
Or contact us today for a confidential consultation.
TEZ Law Firm — Defending Immigrants. Reuniting Families.
