Home Information Sharing & Analysis Prevention & Protection Preparedness & Response Research Commerce & Trade Travel Security Immigration
About the Department Open for Business Press Room
Current National Threat Level is elevated

The threat level in the airline sector is High or Orange. Read more.

Homeland Security 5 Year Anniversary 2003 - 2008, One Team, One Mission Securing the Homeland

Statement by Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff

Release Date: June 25, 2008

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010

We are shocked and appalled to learn that Jesus Navarro Montes was recently released by a Mexican Judge. Navarro Montes is a suspect in the murder of Border Patrol Agent Luis Aguilar. Agent Aguilar was killed in a heinous act of violence on January 19 in the Yuma Sector, while attempting to stop two vehicles that illegally entered the country and were absconding into Mexico.

We are working with a determined Mexican Government, and our Department of Justice, to seek swift justice for the Aguilar murder. We have also assured Agent Aguilar's family that every resource is being called upon in the relentless pursuit of justice.

Agent Aguilar's murder represents a tragic example of border violence. We are placing our highest priority on combating and ending the increase in violence, and the American public stands with the men and women of the Border Patrol as they carry out their heroic service.

###

This page was last reviewed/modified on June 25, 2008.