During a recent visit to Cochise County, Arizona, Sheriff Mark Dannels, who also serves as the chairman for the National Sheriff Association for Border Security, expressed deep concerns regarding the escalating crime rates linked to border-related issues. Addressing President Trump, Dannels highlighted the frustrations of local citizens and law enforcement, citing a staggering 3,762 arrests for border-related crimes over the past 31 months, which he emphasized are not merely immigration violations but serious criminal offenses.

Sheriff Dannels reported that these issues have cost the county approximately $12.5 million, with no financial assistance from the federal government. He pointed to a dramatic increase in fentanyl seizures in Arizona, rising from 2 million pills in 2020 to 111 million last year, attributing this surge to the influence of drug cartels operating across the border.

The sheriff recounted alarming incidents involving local law enforcement, including an attack on a Border Patrol agent and threats against deputies by cartel members. He criticized the current administration for failing to engage with local sheriffs, noting that it is the first in modern history not to have met with any American sheriff regarding border security.

Dannels concluded his remarks by reaffirming the commitment of America's sheriffs to secure the borders and expressed gratitude for President Trump's support, stating that the visit renewed hope for the community and its law enforcement officials.