(NewsNation) — In Nogales, Arizona, the U.S. military has ramped up its presence along the border under the Trump administration, not only monitoring crossings but now actively using sound systems to deter migrants from entering the country.
Troops stationed in National Defense Areas — highly secured, militarized zones — are now employing the Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) to send warnings before migrants cross the border.
“This is the LRAD — Long Range Acoustic Device,” explained Sgt. Ernesto Nevarez. “It broadcasts tones or voice messages across long distances.”
The U.S. Army’s presence in Nogales is unmistakable, featuring 117 armored vehicles, 35+ helicopters, and a full suite of high-tech surveillance equipment, including drones scanning the borderlands. But the latest tactic is simpler: sound.
With the LRAD, officials can warn migrants that crossing the barrier places them in a National Defense Area, where they will be detained immediately.
Despite a national decline in border crossings, Arizona continues to face significant migrant activity. In the past week alone, 135 individuals were charged with immigration-related crimes. Among them:
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67 for illegal re-entry
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13 for human smuggling
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5 for assaulting federal officers
Authorities say some suspects had prior violent criminal records in Mexico, while others became violent during arrests.
“We’re just watching,” said Army Sgt. Ana Harker. “But if there’s a crime, we’re ready to respond and alert Border Patrol to act immediately.”
With cartels evolving their smuggling strategies, the mission continues to expand through Arizona’s harshest terrain.
Arizona isn’t alone. The Rio Grande Valley in South Texas has also been added to the list of National Defense Areas — signaling a broader, ongoing military role in U.S. border enforcement.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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