Douglas Customs Officer Faces Charges for Weapons Misconduct and Computer Tampering

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer stationed near Douglas was arrested this week as part of an extensive investigation into drug trafficking operations in Cochise County.

James Galino and his girlfriend, Gabriela Arias, faced arrest on Monday when deputies executed a search warrant linked to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office Counter-Narcotics and Trafficking Alliance.

Galino has been charged with several counts of domestic violence and child abuse, along with a weapons misconduct charge and five counts of computer tampering, according to CCSO officials.

Arias received charges for multiple counts of domestic violence and child abuse, possession of narcotics and marijuana, along with possession of drug paraphernalia. She also faces a charge of weapons misconduct.

The CBP has not publicly commented on Galino’s arrest. However, in previous similar cases, the agency has emphasized a commitment to upholding “honor and integrity” among its personnel, stating a zero-tolerance policy for corruption.

This arrest marks the second incident in which a CBP employee in Arizona has faced criminal charges in just two months. In November, Timothy Sullivan, 48, was apprehended by Marana police and charged with 19 felonies, including aggravated assault and endangerment after allegedly assaulting his wife.

Police reported that during Sullivan’s arrest, he emerged from his home wielding a pistol and a rifle, firing a round in their direction. Officers apprehended him after he complied with orders to drop the firearms. The officers expressed concern for their safety, leading to Sullivan being subdued with a taser.

A CBP spokesman previously reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to honor and integrity, stating that the vast majority of CBP officers execute their responsibilities with distinction. The spokesman also highlighted that the agency fully cooperates with all investigations into alleged misconduct within its ranks, both on and off duty.