It's a dangerous trade-off for sake of better security - Border Patrol agents being assaulted by illegal immigrants.
The attacks are up 73 percent this year ... and up 127 percent the last four years.
The statistics come from U.S. Customs and Border Protection -- but the commitment to carry on, despite the risk, comes from Carla Provost, acting chief of the U.S. Border Patrol.
Statistics show that 786 agents were assaulted in the line of duty in 324 incidents over the past 12 months.
Border Patrol agents face unique risks associated with their jobs. Federal statistics would suggest that Border Patrol personnel are the most assaulted people of all federal law enforcement officers.
Assaults against border patrol personnel have gone up four straight years -- a 127 percent increase.
Security expert Chris Cabrera tells Newsradio 740 KTRH that’s why resources and support from the federal government are critical for Border Patrol personnel can do their jobs effectively and safely.