The Trump administration has designated the Imperial Valley's U.S. border area as a militarized zone.

The plan was announced Wednesday when the U. S. Department of Interior said that it would transfer jurisdiction of most of the California international border with Mexico to the U.S. Navy. The area extends from the Arizona state line to the Otay Mountain Wilderness in San Diego County. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said, " By working with the Navy to close long-standing security gaps, we are strengthening national defense, protecting our public lands from unlawful use, and advancing the President's agenda." 

Previous militarized zones have been established in Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. The move empowers U.S. military troops to apprehend anyone accused of trespassing on a military bases. It also could mean additional charges and even prison time.