DHS Technology Systems Do Not Effectively Support Migrant Tracking at the Southwest Border

DHS’ IT systems did not effectively allow CBP and ICE personnel to track migrants from apprehension to release or transfer. Instead, DHS personnel and partner agencies at the border implemented manual and ad hoc workarounds to process migrants apprehended illegally entering the United States. DHS personnel also faced challenges when data was not consistently documented in DHS’ systems of record. For example, migrant apprehension times were not recorded in a consistent manner, and we identified missing migrant data that prevented DHS from determining family status. Also, CBP did not always document a migrant’s intended U.S. address before releasing the individual into the United States using prosecutorial discretion to await immigration proceedings. We made eight recommendations that will help prioritize funding needs and make integration improvements to DHS IT systems to promote timely and accurate information sharing within DHS and with external partners. The Department concurred with all recommendations.