LAREDO, Texas – With thousands flooding across the border thinking they will be granted legal status, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has created a series of public service announcements to dispel the rumors.
The ads depict true stories of death, abuse and deception from coyotes, also known as smugglers.
The intent is to bring awareness to the dangers children and their families face when embarking on the journey to the United States.
"The border is a different place now, it's very dangerous for children. No. 2, it's our responsibility to protect them, they are our future," said CBP spokesman Jaime Ruiz.
The Dangers Awareness Campaign ads will start running in September.
"We are placing billboards, we are placing radio and television spots in Central America, especially in Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala, some places in Mexico," Ruiz said.
CBP has apprehended more than 52,000 children at the border. Approximately 3/4 of them are from countries in Central America.
Many make the journey with the false notion that they will be given legal status on arrival.
"What you actually get is a notice to appear in front of a judge. Crossing the border illegally subjects an individual to deportation regardless of age," said Ruiz.
The ads will come at no cost to the American public.
"This is money from Customs and Border Protection, it's about $1 million, 6,500 PSA's," said Ruiz.