The Department of Homeland Security expressed its “sincerest condolences” Thursday after reports that a 7-year-old Guatemalan girl died last week after more than eight hours in custody of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
In a statement, DHS said CBP agents “took every possible step to save the child’s life under the most trying of circumstances.”
“Unfortunately, despite our best efforts and the best efforts of the medical team treating the child, we were unable to stop this tragedy from occurring,” the statement continued.
DHS also noted the risks inherent in attempting to enter the U.S. illegally.
“Once again, we are begging parents to not put themselves or their children at risk attempting to enter illegally,” the statement said. “Please present yourselves at a port of entry and seek to enter legally and safely.” – READ MORE