San Diego Closes Migrant Facility After Unprecedented Border Crossing Decline

San Diego's migrant processing centers have been shut down following a significant drop in illegal border crossings, attributed to policies implemented under the Trump administration. The San Diego Sector Soft Sided Facility, which could house 1,000 migrants, was dismantled due to a drastic decrease in arrests—from over 1,000 per day in 2024 to just 38 per day in March 2025, marking a 186% drop. This decline has also led to the closure of several shelters operated by nonprofit organizations such as Catholic Charities and Jewish Family Services, resulting in layoffs and the repurposing of facilities like the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) highlighted that shutting these facilities saves millions monthly, allowing resources to be redirected toward border security and operational control. Officials emphasize that these changes reflect a strong stance against illegal immigration, with a commitment to deporting individuals who enter unlawfully. Despite the shutdowns, organizations like Jewish Family Services continue to offer legal aid and community services to vulnerable migrants.