A former U.S. Border Patrol agent, Shane Millan, has pleaded guilty to charges of depriving women of their rights by forcing them to expose their breasts during virtual immigration interviews. The 53-year-old conducted these interviews via webcam at the Eagle Pass border in Texas while being physically located in Jefferson County, New York.
Abusing His Position of Power
Millan admitted that he misused his authority to exploit multiple women seeking entry into the United States. In one case, on August 10, 2023, he told a woman with a one-year-old child that he needed to see a tattoo on her chest. He insisted she lift her top to prove she didn’t have one. When she complied, he later demanded that she do it again, threatening to deny her entry if she refused. After she followed his orders, he reportedly responded with, “OK… Welcome to the USA.”
Using Spanish Translations to Manipulate Victims
According to court documents, Millan even looked up Spanish translations online to coerce Spanish-speaking women into exposing themselves. He searched phrases like, “I will need you to lift your shirt and bra also, please” and “To verify, I will need you to lift your shirt, please.” His actions were not legitimate security checks but were done for his personal gratification.
Legal Consequences
Millan pleaded guilty to two counts of deprivation of rights under color of law, acknowledging that he violated the victims’ constitutional right to be free from unreasonable searches. He is now awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for July. He could face up to two years in prison and a fine of $200,000.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of New York released a statement condemning his actions, saying that he abused his authority and lied to victims by claiming his demands were part of official procedures.
Another Border Patrol Agent Involved in Criminal Activities
Millan is not the only former Border Patrol agent facing serious charges. Another ex-agent, Hector Hernandez, also pleaded guilty in February for using his official position to smuggle drugs and undocumented immigrants across the U.S.-Mexico border in exchange for money.
According to his plea deal, Hernandez opened border fencing to allow illegal immigrants and narcotics to enter the United States. He then transported these drugs from the Southern District of California to various locations across the country.
Authorities Respond
U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath strongly condemned Hernandez’s actions, stating, “Agent Hernandez betrayed his badge and his country. Instead of protecting the U.S. from smugglers and drug traffickers, he joined them.”
Conclusion
These cases highlight serious misconduct within the U.S. Border Patrol, raising concerns about corruption and abuse of power. While legal action is being taken against these individuals, their actions have damaged trust in the agency. Authorities continue to investigate and prosecute officers who misuse their positions for personal gain.
