Banks described his decision as timely, stating he helped steer the border from chaotic to a more secure state.

Earlier reports alleged Banks paid for sex with prostitutes on trips abroad, with CBP reportedly investigating the claims and later closing the matter.

An agent or deputy criticized Banks’ character, referencing trips to third-world countries to exploit women.

The Daily Beast reported that Banks’ conduct had been investigated twice while at CBP, with one investigation before his 2023 retirement and another opened in 2025 but reportedly closed without public release of findings.

Immigration and border data show a sharp drop in apprehensions, from about 956,000 prior to his tenure to roughly 86,000 in the first year of Trump’s presidency, reflecting policy shifts and enforcement changes.

CNN has sought comment from Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security as the story develops.

Banks led the Border Patrol during a period of high-profile enforcement, including operations in Democratic-led cities, coinciding with spikes in arrests and national attention.

Appointed by the second Trump administration in January 2025 after serving as Texas border czar, Banks was a rare non-career appointee as Border Patrol chief.

Michael Banks, head of U.S. Border Patrol, announced his resignation, confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security, marking another leadership change within the Trump-era immigration enforcement apparatus.

In his remarks, Banks cited a desire to enjoy time with family and reduce public service commitments after almost 37 years in public service.

Banks had returned to the Border Patrol after a long career and rose to influence as border czar under Gov. Greg Abbott amid high illegal crossings.

Banks did not publicly attend the Border Security Expo in Phoenix this month, where the agency’s chief and allies typically engage with contractors.