Newly released data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) indicates a significant decline in illegal border crossings at the southern U.S. border in January 2025. According to the data, a total of 61,465 individuals were apprehended during the month, marking a 36% decrease from December 2024.
The breakdown of these figures includes 29,116 individuals apprehended along the border and 32,349 at official ports of entry. This represents the lowest monthly total since May 2020.
Following the inauguration of President Donald J. Trump on January 20, the rate of border apprehensions declined further. Between January 21 and January 31, apprehensions by U.S. Border Patrol along the southwest border dropped by 85% compared to the same period in 2024, according to data obtained by ABC News. Additionally, apprehensions at ports of entry declined by 93% during this 11-day period.
By comparison, the average number of encounters recorded at the southern border in January under the previous administration stood at approximately 141,710. The new data suggests a notable shift in border enforcement trends following policy changes implemented in early 2025.
Officials attribute the decrease in crossings to recent policy adjustments aimed at strengthening border security and expediting the processing of individuals attempting to enter the country illegally. The impact of these measures continues to be monitored by immigration authorities and policy analysts.
