How to Find Someone in CBP Custody | Tez Law Firm

What is CBP Custody?

Before we dive into how to locate someone, it’s important to understand what CBP custody means. U.S. Customs and Border Protection is a federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responsible for securing the nation’s borders. Individuals may be taken into CBP custody for reasons such as:

• Attempting to cross the border without proper documentation

• Suspicion of visa fraud

• Re-entry after previous deportation

• Expired visa or immigration violations

CBP custody is generally short-term (up to 72 hours), after which individuals are either released, transferred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), or deported.

Why It’s So Hard to Find Someone in CBP Custody

Families and friends often panic when a loved one is detained at the border, particularly because CBP does not have a publicly searchable detainee locator system like ICE does. There’s no online database or direct phone number you can use to simply search someone’s name.

That’s where having a trusted immigration law firm like Tez Law Firm becomes crucial. We have experience and established channels to locate detainees and push for timely legal intervention.

Immediate Steps to Take If Someone Is Detained by CBP

If you believe someone has been taken into CBP custody, here’s what you can do immediately:

1. Gather Key Information

Having accurate information is vital:

• Full name (as it appears on their passport or ID)

• Date of birth

• Country of origin

• Time and location of detention (if known)

• Alien Registration Number (A#) if available

The more details you have, the easier it is for an attorney or advocate to assist in locating them.

2. Contact CBP Ports of Entry Directly

You can call the port of entry where you believe the person was detained. CBP officers may not provide specific details due to privacy laws, but they may confirm whether someone has been detained or transferred.

For example:

• San Ysidro Port of Entry

• Laredo Port of Entry

• Miami International Airport CBP Office

These locations often have their own contact numbers available on the official CBP website.

3. Retain an Immigration Attorney

This is the most effective step you can take. A qualified immigration attorney—like the team at Tez Law Firm—can file a request with DHS or CBP for the detainee’s information, advocate for their release, and start the legal process if necessary.

Visit our dedicated page for more details:
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How Tez Law Firm Can Help You Locate a Person in CBP Custody

At Tez Law Firm, we specialize in immigration law, and we have direct experience dealing with CBP and ICE. Here’s how we assist clients in these urgent situations:

1. Communication With CBP and DHS

Our team knows how to file FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) requests and privacy waivers to get necessary information about the detainee's status and location. While CBP may be reluctant to release details to the general public, they are more responsive to legal representatives.

2. Coordinating with Consulates

If the detainee is a foreign national, contacting their consulate can sometimes expedite the process. We help families navigate this diplomatic channel effectively.

3. Legal Representation and Bond Hearings

If the detainee is transferred from CBP custody to ICE detention, we move quickly to request a bond hearing or file for parole based on humanitarian grounds. Early legal intervention often makes the difference between weeks of detention or a quick release.

Understanding the Timeline of CBP Custody

Many people assume that CBP detention means weeks or months of being held, but that’s not typically the case. Here's a basic breakdown of what happens after someone is taken into CBP custody:

1. Initial Detention – Up to 72 hours

2. Interview and Background Check – CBP assesses whether the person has legal status or protection claims.

3. Transfer or Release – Based on findings, the person may be:

   • Transferred to ICE

   • Expeditedly removed

   • Allowed to continue into the U.S. with a Notice to Appear (NTA) in immigration court

Tez Law Firm tracks these transitions closely to make sure your loved one doesn’t fall through the cracks.

What If the Person is a Minor?

CBP has specific protocols for handling unaccompanied minors. These children are typically transferred to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) within 72 hours. Tez Law Firm has experience working with ORR cases and can help families reunite quickly.

Your Rights and the Detainee’s Rights

Whether the detainee is undocumented, overstayed a visa, or has asylum concerns, they still have legal rights:

• Right to an attorney (though not provided by the government)

• Right to remain silent

• Right to due process

• Right to make a phone call

Tez Law Firm ensures these rights are respected and takes immediate action if violations occur.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait – Act Fast

The earlier you act, the better the outcome. CBP custody is just the first step in what could become a long immigration battle—or a quick resolution if handled properly.

At Tez Law Firm, we treat each case with urgency and compassion. Our legal team is available 24/7 to help you find someone in CBP custody and provide immediate support during what is often a frightening time.

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About Tez Law Firm

Tez Law Firm is a full-service immigration law firm with a reputation for excellence, empathy, and results. We specialize in deportation defense, asylum, family petitions, and emergency CBP and ICE detention cases. Whether it’s reuniting families or stopping removals, we fight for your future.