Jesse D. Muñoz, a 25-year veteran of the U.S. Border Patrol, has been appointed chief patrol agent of the El Paso Sector, according to Border Report.
A Long-Standing Border Patrol Career
Muñoz began his service with the Border Patrol in 2000 and has held a variety of leadership positions over the past two decades. He has worked at the agency’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., and has led operations in multiple sectors. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his expertise in search, rescue, and trauma response.
Recent Leadership Roles
From August 2024 until his new appointment, Muñoz served as chief patrol agent of the Laredo Sector. Prior to that, he acted as chief patrol agent and deputy chief patrol agent for Laredo. He also held the position of acting deputy chief patrol agent for the Rio Grande Valley Sector.
Special Operations Experience
Muñoz was deputy chief patrol agent for the Special Operations Group and assistant chief of the Joint Operations Directorate. In addition, he served as patrol agent in charge of the National Border Patrol Search, Trauma and Rescue Unit (BORSTAR). These roles have given him a broad perspective on both tactical operations and administrative leadership.
A Return to El Paso
The El Paso Sector previously had Muñoz in an acting capacity as deputy chief patrol agent, demonstrating his familiarity with the region’s challenges. His appointment brings continuity to the sector’s leadership after the departure of Scott “Scott” Good.
Scott Good’s Transition
Good had been the chief patrol agent of the El Paso Sector from March 2023 to February 2025. During that period, Walter Slosar served as interim chief patrol agent. Good returned briefly to the El Paso post before moving to lead the Del Rio Sector.
Geographic Scope of the El Paso Sector
The El Paso Sector extends from Hudspeth County, Texas, to the New Mexico-Arizona state line. It includes several key ports of entry along the U.S.-Mexico border. The sector’s broad jurisdiction requires coordination across multiple agencies and jurisdictions.
Migrant Encounters in Fiscal 2024
Migrant encounters in the El Paso Sector have fallen to historic lows this year. Since the fiscal year began on October 1, agents have recorded 2,648 migrants between ports of entry. This trend reflects broader changes in migration patterns along the entire U.S.-Mexico border.
Military Foundations
Before joining the Border Patrol, Muñoz served eight years in the U.S. Army as a combat medic and vocational nurse. He was deployed to Turkey and Iraq in 1991 with the 3rd Infantry Division. These experiences shaped his approach to crisis response and medical care.
Academic Credentials
Muñoz earned a bachelor’s degree in history from American Military University. He also holds a Master of Science degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College. In addition, he graduated from the Customs and Border Protection Leadership Institute, further honing his leadership skills.
Leadership Philosophy
Throughout his career, Muñoz has emphasized the importance of teamwork and community engagement. He has led initiatives that improve coordination between field agents and local authorities. His focus on operational excellence has earned him respect across the agency.
Implications for the El Paso Sector
With Muñoz at the helm, the sector is expected to maintain its focus on reducing migrant encounters while enhancing safety for both border personnel and local residents. His experience in search and rescue operations will support the sector’s ongoing humanitarian missions.
Future Operations
The new chief patrol agent will oversee the implementation of updated protocols for border security. He will also work closely with federal, state, and local partners to address emerging challenges. His leadership is anticipated to strengthen interagency collaboration.
Community Engagement
Muñoz has previously worked with community organizations to improve public understanding of border operations. He plans to continue outreach efforts to build trust and cooperation among residents in the sector’s jurisdiction.
Key Takeaways
- Jesse D. Muñoz, a 25-year Border Patrol veteran, has become chief patrol agent of the El Paso Sector.
- He replaces Scott Good, who now leads the Del Rio Sector after a brief return to El Paso.
- The sector has seen record low migrant encounters, with 2,648 migrants recorded this fiscal year.
The appointment of Muñoz underscores the Border Patrol’s commitment to experienced leadership and operational excellence in one of the country’s most critical border regions.
