A journalist returning to the United States from Canada was assaulted by a Border Patrol agent this week after attempting to record his encounter.
The journalist, Rogier van Bakel of Reason.com, was preparing to enter Maine after a short family vacation in Quebec when he was stopped at the Jackman Border Patrol Station.
Traveling with his two daughters, Bakel says an agent began asking questions after viewing their passports.
“They do have their mother’s last name, and they do look somewhat Asian,” Bakel wrote. “I’m white. Maybe he’s curious.”
After informing the agent of his relation to the girls, Bakel says he was asked if he had “permission” to travel with his own daughters.
“Do you have a letter with her permission for you to travel with them?” the agent asked.
Stunned by the question, Bakel asked if he was required to carry such an item, prompting the agent to call for a vehicle search.
“He clearly doesn’t appreciate even that tiny bit of pushback,” Bakel noted.
After being ordered to follow the agent to a nearby building, Bakel says he grabbed his phone and began recording.
“For my protection, officer, I’m now recording what’s happening,” Bakel said.