Cortez Masto Calls on DHS and CBP to Reform Child Detention Protocols Following Deaths of Migrant Children

Statement

U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan urging them to work with Congress to make changes to its detention protocols in order to prioritize the wellbeing and safety of migrant children. Following the deaths of 8-year-old Felipe Alonzo-Gomez and 7-year-old Jakelin Caal Maquin, Cortez Masto calls on the agencies to perform a full evaluation of its processes and make necessary reforms to prevent future tragedies.

"While the circumstances surrounding these deaths are pending investigation, what we currently know about their deaths while in CBP custody is truly concerning," said Cortez Masto. "For these reasons, I call on CBP to work with Congress and the appropriate medical professionals to make immediate and permanent changes to the way it processes, detains, and examines the wellbeing of children in its custody. Children and families in the government's custody, no matter their immigration status, must be treated with dignity and receive the utmost care."

Cortez Masto continued, "I understand Secretary Nielsen has announced a series of changes, including secondary medical checks for all children in CBP custody and a "more thorough hands on assessment at the earliest possible time post apprehension--whether or not the accompanying adult has asked for one.' While this is a positive first step, I urge DHS and CBP to perform a full evaluation of its standards, protocols, and child welfare resources and work with Congress to make the necessary reforms to ensure this never happens again."

In October 2018, Cortez Masto introduced the Child Trafficking Victims Protection and Welfare Act, which expands protections for vulnerable children in the custody of Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

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