Speaking at the Santa Teresa Border Patrol Station on Thursday, Commissioner Basham says illegal immigration and criminal activity is down, partly because of the presence of National Guard troops.

He said, "We're seeing less and less of illegal traffic. Both in human traffic, as well as drug traffic."

While the increase in National Guard troops is welcomed by residents in Santa Teresa, many people in the neighboring city of Sunland Park are not as enthusiastic.

Sunland Park resident Alberto Cruz said, "The people here are against a lot of things, especially since the people are crossing over just to get a job."

The City Council and mayor of Sunland Park denied the National Guard permission to patrol their sliver of the border more than a week ago. The city's 'no' vote has prompted an increased National Guard presence on both sides of the area.