However, a series of reports from The Texas Tribune and Reveal highlights illegal activity happening not only here on the US side of the border but among those tasked with policing it – members of US law enforcement.
This week's stories are part of a yearlong look at the issues of border security and immigration called Bordering on Insecurity.
To tell us more, we talk with Texas Tribune investigative reporter Jay Root, one of several reporters who contributed to the series.
MORE:
Cracks in the Wall: When Border Watchdogs Turn Criminal (Texas Tribune, July 7, 2016)
Agent, Smuggler Joined Together for Love and Money (Texas Tribune, July 6, 2016)
Headless Body Leads to Arrest of Border Patrol Agent (Texas Tribune, July 5, 2016)