San Diego, CA – A former U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for enabling drug-filled vehicles to pass through one of the nation’s busiest ports of entry without inspection. The case highlights a rare but deeply damaging breach of trust within a frontline security agency.
Federal prosecutors said the officer, Diego Bonillo, admitted he worked directly with a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization, receiving payments in exchange for allowing smugglers carrying methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl to cross through the San Ysidro Port of Entry without inspection. According to an account detailed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Bonillo knowingly participated in a conspiracy that spanned months.
How the Smuggling Scheme Operated
Investigators discovered Bonillo was operating a second, undisclosed phone to communicate critical information to the criminal network.
Agents learned that:
- He sent lane assignments and timing details to smugglers.
- He coordinated directly with members of the trafficking organization to ensure vehicles passed uninspected.
Officials determined his involvement began no later than October 2023 and continued through April 2024, during which he reportedly allowed at least 15 drug-packed vehicles into the U.S. without screening.
Evidence of Corruption and Personal Gain
In reviewing sentencing materials, authorities found Bonillo used illicit proceeds to fund a lifestyle far beyond his government salary. His spending included:
- International travel
- Luxury purchases and high-end gifts
- Tickets to world-championship fights
- Property acquisitions in Mexico
- Payments to entertainers at the Hong Kong Gentlemen’s Club in Tijuana
Prosecutors said the spending demonstrated clear evidence of corruption and personal enrichment tied directly to his role in drug smuggling.
Federal Officials Condemn Betrayal of Public Trust
The sentencing drew sharp criticism from federal leaders who emphasized the severe dangers posed by diverting law-enforcement powers for criminal use.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon said Bonillo’s conduct represented a profound violation of the responsibilities tied to his position.
“This sentence holds Bonillo accountable for betraying the public trust,” Gordon said. “He weaponized his badge for personal profit, funneling deadly narcotics through a port of entry and putting communities at risk.”
Gordon added that corruption within border enforcement is taken extremely seriously and will continue to be prosecuted aggressively.
National Security Concerns Raised by DHS Inspector General
The Department of Homeland Security Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari also underscored the threat Bonillo’s actions posed to the country.
“This sentence sends a clear message that such betrayal of public trust will not be tolerated,” Cuffari said. “Corrupt Customs and Border Protection Officers betray their oath and endanger our national security.”
Federal investigators noted that the volume of drugs entering during Bonillo’s tenure remains under review, but the confirmed 15 vehicles alone represent a significant breach of border security.
Wider Impact on Drug Trafficking Investigations
Cases involving insider corruption often expose broader criminal networks. According to federal prosecutors, data recovered from Bonillo’s secondary phone may support ongoing investigations into the trafficking group responsible for coordinating the smuggling operations.
Officials said incidents like this hinder national efforts to combat the flow of fentanyl, which continues to fuel overdose deaths nationwide and remains a top priority for law enforcement.
Public Safety and Border Integrity Concerns
Experts note that even isolated corruption can undermine the integrity of entire security systems. Allowing drug-loaded vehicles to pass uninspected places communities across the country at risk, particularly given the increasing lethality of synthetic opioids.
The case has renewed discussions around:
- Strengthening internal monitoring systems
- Increasing background and lifestyle reviews for CBP personnel
- Improving digital tracking of communications within sensitive agencies
Bonillo will serve his 15-year sentence in federal custody, with no early-release pathway announced.
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