Border Patrol Chief Michael Fisher recognized the El Paso sector as one of the safest during a visit from Washington.

Border Patrol officials said illegal apprehensions have declined by 15 percent in the El Paso sector, and they've been declining steadily over the past five to six years.

Officers said they average 10 apprehensions a day compared to an average of 1,000 in 1993.

Fisher said even though crime has declined in El Paso, the fundamental mission of the Border Patrol is still the same.

"What we're trying to accomplish, among other things, is to reduce the likelihood that dangerous people and dangerous capabilities enter this country. That is the focus in El Paso," said Fisher.

Fisher also said the threat against the United States constantly evolves but so does the Border Patrol's strategy.