U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks, 53, is at the center of serious allegations concerning his personal conduct. Six current and former agents have come forward claiming Banks repeatedly boasted about paying for sexual acts while traveling internationally.

Allegations of Misconduct

According to an investigation published by the Washington Examiner, Banks allegedly discussed his trips to Colombia and Thailand with colleagues, and even invited some to join him. One agent stated, “I don’t know how he became the chief of the Border Patrol with his character.”

A second source detailed Banks’ alleged reasoning for these trips, stating, “He would tell people that’s why he was going on these trips—he would go there to engage in activities with prostitutes.” This behavior is seen by some as deeply contradictory to the Border Patrol’s mission to combat human trafficking.

Contradiction to Agency Mission

“In our line of work, part of what we do is try to combat the trafficking of females, that is part of our job,” one source explained. “It’s counter to what we do or what we should be standing for. If you’re partaking in those activities, you’re supporting the trafficking and exploitation of women.”

Internal Investigations and Responses

Two internal investigations were reportedly launched into these allegations. The first occurred before Banks’ initial retirement in early 2023, and the second began around June 2025 after his return to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The latter investigation, conducted by CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility, was ultimately closed without a public announcement of its findings.

A CBP spokesperson stated, “These allegations date back more than a decade and were reviewed years ago. The matter was closed. CBP takes allegations regarding misconduct seriously.”

Union Defense

Paul Perez, president of the Border Patrol’s nongovernmental union, defended Banks, stating, “An allegation was made, was investigated, and the subject was cleared of any misconduct,” dismissing the sources as having “an axe to grind.” The Examiner reported that Banks took no disciplinary action against the six sources who spoke out.

Background and Appointments

Michael Banks was appointed to lead the U.S. Border Patrol in January 2025 under Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, 54. His appointment followed a period of turmoil within the agency. Paying for sex is legal in both Colombia and Thailand, but the sources maintain that Banks’ alleged actions violated Border Patrol ethics.

Banks’ rise to the top of the Border Patrol was reportedly influenced by his relationship with the union. His wife, Mayra Banks, is a serving agent and a member of the union’s executive board. One of his first actions as chief was to eliminate a policy prohibiting managers from fraternizing with subordinates, a rule the union had previously opposed.

Reports indicate that Secretary Noem and her aide, Corey Lewandowski, were involved in efforts to remove former Commissioner Rodney Scott and replace him with immigration hardliner Gregory Bovino.