CBP Officer Charged for Allegedly Harboring Unauthorized Immigrant Girlfriend

Authorities say the officer, a 25-year veteran, provided financial support and housing to a woman who had overstayed her visa.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer has been charged with federal crimes for allegedly harboring an immigrant who officials say is in the country illegally and is also the officer's girlfriend and niece. The Justice Department alleges that CBP officer and supervisor Andres Wilkinson was living in Laredo, Texas, with a woman who had overstayed her visa, providing her with financial support, housing, credit cards, and access to a vehicle.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about potential abuse of power and conflicts of interest within the CBP, as the officer was responsible for enforcing immigration laws while allegedly harboring an unauthorized immigrant who was also his romantic partner. It also highlights the complex family relationships and immigration status issues that can arise in such situations.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, the woman entered the U.S. on a temporary visa in August 2023 but overstayed. Wilkinson allegedly provided her with financial support, housing, credit cards, and vehicle access, despite being aware of her unlawful immigration status. Officials also found indications that the woman is Wilkinson's niece, and that she was previously married to another man who had filed a green card application on her behalf, which was later canceled.

  • The woman entered the U.S. on a temporary visa in August 2023.
  • In January 2024, her husband filed a green card application on her behalf.
  • In April 2025, the green card petition was canceled.
  • In August 2024, the woman began living with Wilkinson.
  • In February 2026, CBP OPR detained the woman and she admitted to living with Wilkinson since August 2024.

The players

Andres Wilkinson

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer and supervisor who has been with CBP for almost 25 years and was recently promoted to a supervisory role, where his duties included overseeing the enforcement of immigration laws.

J. Santos Garcia-Moreno

The man whom Wilkinson listed as his brother in his 2023 background investigation, and who is the father of the woman Wilkinson is accused of harboring.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold our law enforcement officers to the highest standards, and this case demonstrates our commitment to doing so.”

— U.S. Attorney Ashley C. Hoff

What’s next

Wilkinson is scheduled to appear in court on Friday for a detention hearing, where a judge will decide whether to allow him to be released on bail pending trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of maintaining integrity and accountability within law enforcement agencies, especially when it comes to enforcing immigration laws. It raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and the need for robust oversight to prevent abuse of power.