Joco Today

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall from Kansas recently visited Sierra Vista, Arizona, to tour the Joint Task Force-Southern Border Command offices. During his visit, he met with members of Kansas' 1st Infantry Division from Fort Riley and participated in tours along the southern border. He also received briefings and took an aerial tour of the border near Arizona alongside several Kansas law enforcement officials.

Senator Marshall's visit included interactions with various law enforcement figures such as Sheriff Billy Tomasi, Director Brian Peete, Sheriff Jeff Easter, Sheriff Scott Braun, Chief Karl Oakman, Director Tony Mattivi, and Chief Courtney Leslie.

"Having visited the southern border multiple times under the Biden-Harris Administration, I witnessed chaos, lawlessness, and a system overwhelmed by over 10 million illegal crossings –including individuals on the FBI’s terrorist watchlist," stated Senator Marshall. "But during my most recent trip, the difference was clear. Since President Trump returned to office, we’ve already seen a dramatic shift with illegal border crossings dropping 93% compared to last year."

Since President Trump's return to office in January 2025, there has been a significant decrease in illegal immigrant crossings at the southern border. The numbers dropped from 128,900 crossings in April 2024 to only 8,400 in April 2025.

Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) Director Tony Mattivi commented on his participation: "I was honored to join Senator Marshall and several sheriffs and police chiefs in experiencing firsthand the challenges at our southern border."

Riley County Police Department Director Brian Peete added: "Senator Marshall champions law enforcement and public safety efforts. He understands the unique role the Riley County Police Department plays in protecting national security."

Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeffrey Easter remarked on his experience: "This trip highlighted the absolute cooperation between the U.S military, Border Patrol, and the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office."

Crawford County Sheriff Billy Tomasi emphasized learning about drug trafficking routes: "We’ve learned where it’s coming in from...and I appreciate the opportunity from Senator Marshall allowing me to come down here with him."

Hugoton Police Chief Courtney Leslie expressed gratitude for witnessing operations firsthand: "Our visit...was eye-opening...The fight against these cartels is not just a border issue – it is a fight for the safety of every Kansas community."

Kansas City Police Chief Karl Oakman acknowledged ongoing challenges: "Eliminating drug smuggling is still a major challenge at the border."