breaking

Border Patrol Chief Banks Steps Down After Tenure Overseeing Security Overhaul

U.S. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks resigned Thursday, ending his second stint leading the agency after three decades of service. Banks cited readiness to step aside following what he characterized as a transformation of border security operations. "Time to pass the reins, 37 years it's time to enjoy the family and life," Banks said. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott praised Banks' leadership during a tumultuous period marked by enforcement controversies. A partial Homeland Security Department shutdown extended from February through late April following congressional disputes over funding and enforcement actions by Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Scott credited Banks with shifting border operations from chaotic conditions to record security levels.