Investigation Uncovers Hole in Homeland Security

F.M. 1017 may be used to bypass Border Patrol checkpoint

EDINBURG - NEWSCHANNEL 5 has learned smugglers may be using a bypass to get around a Border Patrol checkpoint in the Valley.

FM 1017, thirty miles north of Edinburg, is often used by truck drivers and farmers wanting to avoid traffic.

But a NEWSCHANNEL 5 investigation has found it may be popular with illegal immigrants and criminals as well.

A NEWSCHANNEL 5 crew drove FM 1017 Northwest towards Hebronville, turned on to Highway 285 into Falfurrias, totally bypassing the Checkpoint.

There once was a checkpoint on FM 1017, but it has been shut down.

Spokesperson for Border Patrol Laredo Sector says "The checkpoint is being replaced, and we're going to be moving it to another location. Right now we have an agent patrolling the area."

We're told they're working on a solution to patch the "hole" in Homeland Security.

So far, no exact date for the new checkpoint has been announced.