What Is CBP Custody?
CBP custody refers to the temporary detention of individuals by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It occurs when someone is found at or near a U.S. border—land, sea, or air—and is suspected of not having proper immigration documentation or making an entry contrary to U.S. law. CBP agents take custody for purposes that may include: Verifying identity, nationality, and intent Conducting background checks or questioning Initiating removal procedures if immigration violations are discovered
Why Someone Might Be in CBP Custody {#why-someone-might-be-in-cbp-custody}
There are several reasons a person could be taken into CBP custody, including:
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No valid entry documents (passport, visa)
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Attempting to cross a border unlawfully
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Being previously ordered removed and re-entering
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Random inspection leading to discrepancies
It’s important to remember that custody doesn’t always mean wrongdoing—it may simply be a matter of procedural checks.
How to Find Someone in CBP Custody {#how-to-find-someone-in-cbp-custody}
Step 1: Make the Initial Contact
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CBP One App or Hotline
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You can call the CBP Info Center at 1-877-CBP-5511 (877-227-5511).
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Local Port of Entry
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If you know where they entered, contact the specific port (e.g., San Diego, Laredo, El Paso).
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Be ready to provide full name, date of birth, nationality, and entry estimates.
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Step 2: Submit an Inquiry
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Fill out a Written Information Request (CBP Form 28)—or file a FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request if needed.
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TEZ Law Firm can assist with completing and submitting these requests promptly.
Step 3: Follow Up
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After submitting the inquiry, follow up every 48–72 hours until you receive a response.
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Document the date of submission, credentials of the officers you spoke with, and reference numbers.
Step 4: Understand Possible Outcomes
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Released to ICE: Transferred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for detention or removal proceedings
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Released on parole: Under supervision or with reporting requirements
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Denied entry: May be sent back or barred from re-entry for a period
Real‑World Example: A Case Study {#real-world-example-case-study}
Scenario: Maria, a Mexican national, crossed at an inland checkpoint near El Paso in March 2025. She had a pending asylum application but lacked updated documentation. CBP agents placed her in custody.
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Day 1: Maria’s family called the CBP Info Center but received no immediate answer.
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Day 2: They submitted form CBP‑28 and called the El Paso port.
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Day 4: They were told Maria had been transferred to ICE custody in El Paso.
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Day 7: TEZ Law Firm stepped in, obtained her ICE A‑number, and filed a bond request.
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Day 14: Maria was released from ICE custody on bond, under supervision, and continued her asylum proceedings.
This progress—all completed within two weeks—was possible only through persistence and legal assistance.
What TEZ Law Firm Can Do for You {#what-tez-law-firm-can-do-for-you}
At TEZ Law Firm, we offer the following support when someone is in CBP custody:
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Rapid response communication with CBP and ICE officers
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Assistance filing CBP Form 28 and FOIA requests
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Tracking your loved one’s A‑number and location
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Preparing interviews and documentation for bond or parole hearings
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Ongoing representation through immigration proceedings—even after release
Key Steps Checklist {#key-steps-checklist}
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gather identity info (name, DOB, nationality, photo ID if available) |
| 2 | Call CBP Info Center and/or local port |
| 3 | Submit CBP Form 28 or FOIA |
| 4 | Follow up frequently and document contacts |
| 5 | Reach out to TEZ Law Firm for legal support |
Final Thoughts
Navigating a CBP custody situation is stressful—but knowing what to do, and who to call, can make all the difference. If you’re looking to find someone in CBP custody and ensure they get proper legal representation, TEZ Law Firm is here to help—every step of the way.
Visit our detailed resource page at:
https://tezlawfirm.com/finding-someone-in-cbp-custody/
Let us take on the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on bringing your loved one home.
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