Tucson Sector Border Patrol Chief Rodolfo Karisch.On the job for just two weeks, the new head of the U.S. Border Patrol’s Tucson Sector said he plans to build a better relationship with Arizona border communities. And that means a better relationship with the Sonoran community and businesses, including Sonoran elected officials.
“And that’s why I believe in the importance of working with Mexico. They want the same thing we want on that border, which is safety on that border,” said new Tucson Sector Chief Rodolfo Karisch
He comes to Tucson with more than 30 years of experience with the U.S. Border Patrol, and he knows Arizona
“My father, years ago in Ajo, actually worked in the mines. So this is not my first time in Arizona.”
Karisch said he is about enforcing U.S. immigration laws, but he said he is also a big believer in building relationships with those who live and work along the border.
In addition to speaking Spanish, Karisch says he understands the border culture. But improving communication and access to the terrain for his agents will be one of his first priorities, he said.
“If you look at the rugged terrain that our people have to operate, the access – getting up in these mountain tops – that’s probably the most significant challenge.”
Karisch will be in charge of almost 4,000 agents along the Arizona-Mexico Border.
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