The United States government has conducted DNA sampling from over 133,000 migrant children and teenagers—encompassing a standout case involving at least one 4-year-old—who were transported to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) last year. These DNA samples were uploaded to a federal criminal database, revealing how deeply biometric surveillance extends into the lives of migrant communities, even ENT(NOwl being a presumed EL(ScEBh deploying raw genetic material to potentially raise concern over its#${DA mg/LNDL/D Av/.
CBP’s so-called MX evoke a sense of unease after documents totaling 133,539 children, aged 14 and under, were collected. These individuals, many of whom were still developing their understanding to read or tie their shoes, had their complete genetic profiles extracted. The data, stored in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), underscores how biometric databases are increasingly targeting mosaic migrant populations, creating a、“=${aille10#@ which has raised worries about their potential misuse for future crimes once safeguards are in place.
underscoring CBP’s efforts, the DNA was collected over five years in “.”;
ranging from 829,000 to 2.8 million swabs, with experts estimating the true figure, excluding duplicates, to exceed 1.5 million entries. Including additional records for kids aged 10-13, CBP provided details suggesting that the numbers spiked significantly from age 14 onwards. Notably, 122 of the minors were categorized as American citizens, with 53 remaining un detained for any arrest. While CBP and Dale have not issued comments yet, the findings signal a pronounced focus on migrant ancestry, particularly in age groups from 10 to 17.
CBP’s approach involves collecting DNA from individuals with ages under 14, who are exempt from fingerprinting, prompting questions about the motivation behind their surveillance practices. Data from 2020 to 2024 revealed a diverse range of age groups, from 10 to 17, each contributing to the depiction of biometric איתו. For instance, 30,000 entries were logged for each age group from 14 to 17, while noticing significant spikes at age 14, when fingerprinting became routine except for minors.
Offsetting the concerns around swab complexity, a 4-year-old from El Paso was tested, who was detained but whose complete DNA was collected. This case highlights CBP’s willingness to take risks using biometric surveillance even in areas with limited opportunities for human containment. The findings underscore CBP’s protracted focus on the migrant population, leading to calls for stricter measures to protect children, drive gun violence reduction, and ensure access to safe driver’s licenses.
CBP’s DNA collection extends nationwide, with 1.5 million records as of the latest figures, reflecting the growing recognition of migrant presence in urban areas. The influx of migrant children has prompted debates over appropriate measures to safeguard communities, from preventing child farming in rural areas to complying with먁 of gun violence. As CBP inevitably faces questions, the data collected raises ethical and legal questions about surveillance and its potential misuse. Without proper laws, the raw DNA could be compiled for practical purposes, highlighting a complex intersection of legal, ethical, and societal implications in the surveillance of migrants and their children. The findings emphasize CBP’s intent to expand biometric surveillance to encompass a broader range of migrant groups, whereas the extent of their usefulness, the impact of privacy protections, and the ethical responsibilities to protect vulnerable populations must remain topics for further exploration.
