If you feel you have been mistreated or abused by a CBP (Customs and Border Protection) officer, the agency has a system set to address traveler complaints.  According to [1] cbp.gov:  “The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) currently has in place four primary programs to address and respond to customer complaints and compliments. They are the Passenger Service Representatives, Comment Cards, Customer Service Center, and a program where port directors and supervisors personally respond to telephone and verbal complaints.”

Although going through immigration is not checking into the Ritz, a certain standard of behavior by the officers is expected.  If you encounter problems, follow the agency’s procedures to complain. 

Most CBP officers are courteous and are simply doing their jobs.  However, as with any occupation, those who make a habit of being rude, unprofessional or abusive to custoners should be replaced.  In this economy, finding qualified people to perform those duties should not be too difficult.  Inspired and qualified?  Go to [2] careers at CBP, they may be hiring now!