Border Security Operations in LA Result in 50% Decrease in Apprehensions and Gotaways

Strategic Insights -

Recent operations launched by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to remove "worst of the worst" criminal illegal aliens from Los Angeles have led to a significant decline in apprehensions and gotaways at the US Southern border. The data shows that from June 1-22, apprehensions totaled 5,414, compared to 9,577 in May, a nearly 50% decrease since operations started. Gotaways have also decreased significantly, with only 986 reported since the beginning of June, compared to 2,123 in May. This trend is a stark contrast to the same period last year, when over 600,000 apprehensions were made, and nearly 94,000 gotaways were reported.

Key Takeaways:

  • Since the start of operations in LA, apprehensions at the US Southern border have decreased by nearly 50%.
  • Gotaways have also decreased significantly, with a 53% drop since June 1.
  • The total number of apprehensions from February 1 to June 22 of this year is 37,518, compared to 599,878 during the same period in 2024.
  • Gotaways have similarly decreased, with 11,867 reported between February and June 2025, compared to over 94,000 during the same time in 2024.
  • The Biden Administration's border control policies are contrasting with the Trump Administration's approach, resulting in significantly lower apprehensions and gotaways.
  • DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that the operations are delivering on President Trump's promise to secure the border.
  • Migrants are turning back due to the knowledge that they will ultimately be arrested and deported.

Statistics:

  • Apprehensions from June 1-22: 5,414
  • Apprehensions in May: 9,577
  • Gotaways since June 1: 986
  • Gotaways in May: 2,123
  • Total apprehensions from February 1 to June 22 of this year: 37,518
  • Total apprehensions from February 1 to June 22 of last year: 599,878
  • Total gotaways from February to June 2025: 11,867
  • Total gotaways from February to June 2024: 94,007

Sources:

  • US Department of Homeland Security, no date provided
  • Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, no date provided