Former U.S. Border Patrol Agent Sentenced to 87 Months for Drug and Human Smuggling

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SAN DIEGO – Hector Hernandez, a former U.S. Border Patrol agent, was sentenced today to 87 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to accepting bribes to smuggle methamphetamine and unauthorized immigrants across the U.S.-Mexico border.

Hernandez, who admitted guilt in January, confessed to exploiting his official position to open border fences, allowing unauthorized immigrants to enter the United States from Mexico. Additionally, he facilitated the transport of methamphetamine and other controlled substances from Southern California to other locations within the country.

In his plea agreement, Hernandez revealed that he guided Mexico-based smugglers along the U.S.-Mexico border, highlighting optimal spots for illegal entry. He also disclosed sensitive information about the placement of monitoring devices and cameras, knowledge he acquired through his role as a Border Patrol agent. Hernandez accepted $5,000 per instance of opening restricted border fences to permit illegal entry.

U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath emphasized the breach of trust in law enforcement, stating, "When that trust is undermined by criminal acts concealed behind a badge, it threatens both public safety and the integrity of our judicial system. Hernandez put personal greed above the safety of others, and this sentence reflects the magnitude of his actions."

DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis added, "Hernandez disgraced his badge by smuggling drugs and people across the border. His sentence reflects the harm he caused his coworkers and his country."

DHS Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari remarked, "Today's sentencing sends a clear message that federal officials who betray the people they are sworn to protect will be held accountable for their actions."

Court records reveal that on May 9, 2023, Hernandez unknowingly met with an undercover federal agent and agreed to retrieve a bag of narcotics hidden near the border fence. In exchange for $20,000, he agreed to pick up the bag while on duty and deliver it to the agent. The bag contained 10 kilograms of fake methamphetamine, one pound of real methamphetamine, and a tracking device.

Hernandez collected the bag using his official vehicle, stored it at his residence in Chula Vista, and later attempted to deliver it to the undercover agent, leading to his arrest. Agents found $131,717 in cash and 7.7 grams of cocaine at his home. Hernandez admitted that at least $110,000 of the cash was proceeds from his illicit activities.

As part of his plea deal, Hernandez forfeited his personal vehicle, $110,000 of the seized cash, and his interest in his residence used to store the drugs.

In court, U.S. District Judge Janis L. Sammartino stated, "Border Patrol is an honorable and admirable agency of the Government sworn to protect and safeguard our borders… [Hernandez] chose to betray the agency, the nation, and betray public trust."

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