BORDER: Migrant rights advocate detained by Border Patrol
AFSC's Christian Ramirez released with no charges filed
By EDWARD SIFUENTES - Staff Writer | ∞
A prominent immigrant rights activist was detained Tuesday for several hours by U.S. Border Patrol agents in San Diego for allegedly paying an illegal immigrant to cross the border.
He was later released with no charges filed against him, a spokesman for the agency said.
Christian Ramirez, the national immigrants' rights coordinator for the American Friends Service Committee, a Quaker human rights organization, said he was stopped and questioned at about 4 p.m. by agents at Border Field State Park near the border.
Ramirez was later taken to the Imperial Beach Border Patrol Station, where he was held until about 10 p.m.
Border Patrol spokesman Alex Renteria said Wednesday that an individual who crossed illegally into the U.S. Tuesday afternoon alleged that he had an "agreement" with Ramirez. Renteria declined to release the name of the illegal immigrant making the allegation or the details of the alleged agreement.
"He (Ramirez) was detained to see what his role was," Renteria said. It was later determined that "there was not enough to arrest him."
The investigation was still open, but it "isn't going any further," Renteria said
In a phone interview from his San Diego office, Ramirez said he was told by agents on the scene that the illegal immigrant alleged he had paid him $100 to cross illegally so that he could be filmed.
Ramirez said the allegations were false.
"We have never asked anyone to cross illegally, and it is our policy to ask people not to cross because of the dangers involved," said Ramirez, a naturalized U.S. citizen who began working for the organization eight years ago. He became director of the San Diego office in 2002.
The 31-year-old activist said his detention was a sign of the escalating tensions between immigrant rights activists and immigration authorities at the border.
Immigrant rights activists have held several large protests in recent months against the contruction of a controversial new border fence at the park, which is the last western stretch of fence dividing Mexico and the United States.
Ramirez said he went to the park on Tuesday to film the construction. He later spoke to a group of people who were on the Mexican side of the fence. He said he also filmed people moving back and forth across the border, including one man who was arrested.
As he walked back to his car, Ramirez said he was stopped and questioned by agents. He said he was taunted by the agents, who asked if he worked for "La Raza" and commented that it was "karma time."
"I believe that it was harrassment," Ramirez said. "There were other folks in the park that were not questioned. I think they believed it was a good opportunity to prove a point, that they are in charge, because I have spoken out against the construction of the fence."
Renteria said Ramirez had a right to file a complaint if he felt he had been harrassed, but added that he was not aware of any taunts during the incident.
"I am not aware of anything like that," Renteria said. "I can't comment on that."
Ramirez said he plans to file an official complaint with the agency.
The American Friends Service Committee was founded in 1917 to provide conscientious objectors with an opportunity to aid civilian war victims during World War I. The organization now has social justice, immigrant rights and other programs worldwide.
It was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1947.
In San Diego, the organization focuses primarily on migrant rights issues, such as documenting employment, housing and law enforcement abuses.
Contact staff writer Edward Sifuentes at (760) 740-3511 or esifuentes@nctimes.com.
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Greg in Oceanside wrote on Aug 6, 2008 5:30 PM:One question; was the illegal alien in question caught and deported, along with any others who were sneaking in with him?
American tired of this bull wrote on Aug 6, 2008 5:58 PM:How can you believe anything Ramirez says. Build a BIGGER fence and our crime rate will drop in north county.
par wrote on Aug 6, 2008 7:10 PM:Bottom line, did he break a law or didn't he? If he did why was he not charged? If he didn't why was he questioned? Simple questions deserve a simple answer "yes" or a "no".
Bill wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:12 PM:The tensions this activist speaks of are created by the lawlessness of his followers.
Obey the law.
What a concept huh?
John wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:30 PM:This just goes to show that Ramirez will do anything for attention.
EscoWatchDog wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:37 PM:This man was held as a political prisonser. Think about it. I believe Ramirez and that he was just filming. Things like this do happen, where authorities abuse their power and impose false allegations or "suspicions" as a way show public backlash for speaking out. Ramirez, I stand with you in your fight against injustice and to stop the closure of Friendship Park.
to par wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:10 PM:Simple answer to your question... no. However, the officials have to INVESTIGATE. It would seem that they did and didn't find enough to charge him. When officials have reason to suspect that someone was involved in a crime, what do you want them to do - ignore it? They did the proper thing. Of course, if it was in Mexico, they would have beaten and jailed him, then done the investigation. Ramirez should be glad he lives in the U.S.
Beth-San Marcos wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:32 PM:This guy Ramirez has no credibility. He is tripping out over himself
Kids gloves for... wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:43 PM:The BP broke out the kid gloves when handling this politically sensitive suspect.
Disgusting conduct on his part.
I remember when the Quakers represented helping people, but not aiding and abetting people suspected of entering, or trying to enter the US illegally.
Ed wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:58 PM:Christian Ramirez is an illegal alien enabler. In his mind there are no borders, so he doesn't consider what he did an illegal act.
Publicity Stunt wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:58 PM:Ramirez' lies to Eddie just confirm what BP thought about this. It was all a publicity stunt to attack the U.S. Border Patrol who badly need a triple fence at San Ysidro and the State Park to keep out the invaders who try to cross every day!
Nice try Christian. How did you like that jail cell for 4 hours? You deserve 4 years!
The Advocate wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:12 PM:I believe his allegiance is to Mexico City, not to Washington, D.C., and not to our laws, our Border Patrol, our way of life. Viva La Raza? Heck no. Go home.
Resident of Imperial Bch wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:43 PM:I believe Mr. Ramirez. I have lived in Imperial Beach for 17 years, and I have seen Border Patrol behave irresponsibly not only to immigrants, but to residents as well. I have neighbors who have stopped taking morning walks southbound on the beach because of persistent harassment by BP agents. It is a shameful state of affairs that most people are unaware of their unprofessional conduct.
What the Heck wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:45 PM:This article is Bogus. I was there when all this went down. ... Ed Sufientez, we need to talk, cause this story is full of inaccuracies !
No charges wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:50 PM:I think that says it all. A well merited lawsuit should inform the border guards that they cannot operate with impunity.
Watch yourselves wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:50 PM:U open borders activist better watch your step. We are going to watch you like an eagles eye with cameras rolling every time you hit the borders.
You aren't gonna get away with your lies and propaganda anymore.
Cameras locked on REC. focused on YOU. ...
THose darn peace-loving God-fearing Quakers.... wrote on Aug 6, 2008 11:08 PM:they're ALWAYS getting involved in controversial things...like advocating peaceful solutions instead of war, human freedoms for people regardless of color or creed, and improving the plight of the poor.
Their history of meddling in AMERICAN affairs includes opposing slavery, trying to settle several wars without fighting, feeding the poor, and helping blacks redress their second-class citizenship in southern states. Gads they MUST BE CRAZY to condone such unamerican things! And their religious beliefs...wow what a load of hooey! They actually believe that all men and women contain the light of God within them and that, like Jesus practiced, social change can only truly be brought about by non-violent means.
Yes those dangerous Quakers should be watched carefully. Who knows what they are up to? So like most of the true americans that have commented above I say----BOO TO ALL QUAKERS!
Stephen wrote on Aug 6, 2008 11:18 PM:IMMIGRANTS do NOT need activists.
This individual is NOT an activist for IMMIGRANT.
He is a promoter of breaking US LAWS, and a helper of ILLEGAL ALIEN lawbreakers.
Someone who doesn't know the difference has no business writing and publishing on the subject.
Borderraven wrote on Aug 6, 2008 11:35 PM:I consider, Christian Ramirez, a naturalized American citizen, to be a traitor to the USA, and request he be stripped of his nationality, and he be deported. But, I am only one person.
too eager wrote on Aug 7, 2008 12:02 AM:The Officers showed that they're so stupid that they illegaly deteined a US citizen without probable cause. the'll pay dearly for that.
Ramirez is pathetic wrote on Aug 7, 2008 12:20 AM:It seems to me like Ramirez was just there to cause problems. I think Ramirez should be charged and sent to prison.
Local wrote on Aug 7, 2008 3:17 AM:Ramirez is a well-known far left wing-nut. We're familiar with his act. He needs to be in the public eye. I believe that he is among the last of the unabashed open-borders grupo. They miscalculated and now are left with these random goofy news alerts. He prays for a footnote in the rehash of the border story. His 15 mins are up.
SZinWestLA wrote on Aug 7, 2008 6:10 AM:He has mis-defined himself. Mr. Ramirez is not an
"immigrant rights activist". He is someone who aids and abets illegal aliens.
Dirty Sanchez wrote on Aug 7, 2008 6:46 AM:It seems as if the "immigration rights activists" have more loyalty to Mexico than the United States. We are a nation of laws and if you cannot obey them, then you should not be here.
to Esco wrote on Aug 7, 2008 6:56 AM:Yeah, film makers have never done things they shouldn't, just to get a shot.
It's funny what people will believe!
Bill wrote on Aug 7, 2008 7:11 AM:As I go through the paper and read a lot of the comments it reminds me of the ad that shows up on the pages of this online paper.
The one where the mother is saying her son doesn't smoke pot because he is either here or there and then the son coming on and telling us where and when he gets stoned.
Say no to enablers!
Arnys Army wrote on Aug 7, 2008 7:26 AM:Being fenced in, with the excuse of fencing your neighbor out is still CONFINEMENT! Welcome to the Gulag, forced on you by the fear mongering GOP, with your best interests in mind, MIND YOU!
Rasta Man wrote on Aug 7, 2008 7:30 AM:Bill You Are ... Is That suppose to mean something to the rational? ...
The famous mr ed wrote on Aug 7, 2008 7:38 AM:Leave it to Ed to get everyone all rialed up about a bogus inaccurate article... Thanks!
Others wrote on Aug 7, 2008 7:54 AM:Other winners of the Nobel Peace Prize:
Amnesty International, Yasser Arafat, Mikhail Gorbachev, The Pubwash Conference on Science and World Affairs, Kofi Annan, Jimmy Carter, and... of course... the Gorebot. If I'd won it, I don't think I'd admit it, let alone brag about it.
All of these activist wrote on Aug 7, 2008 8:14 AM:need to be charged. What part of no interfering with a Federal Officer or his duties are they missing?
to others.... wrote on Aug 7, 2008 8:20 AM:yes...all those "horrible" people have won the Nobel prize. Those people who took the view that peace transcends national boundaries and dared to think of the global good rather than american self-interest. I doubt you'll ever have to worry about winning the Nobel prize or any other such award....well maybe you could still qualify for the David Duke medal for intolerance.
Arnys Army wrote on Aug 7, 2008 8:21 AM:The good that some do with their lives is such a threat to those that have contributed nothing but hate to this world. Laws do not always make it right, and the Laws that are meant to cripple humanity are always from the right.
Patriot wrote on Aug 7, 2008 8:25 AM:This is the kind of border controversy that makes headlines in San Diego where we actually have a fence. Sunday night in the Arizona desert the Mexican military crossed the unfenced border and held a border patrol agent at gunpoint. Where are the howls of protest when foreign soldiers abuse an American border patrol agent on our own soil? Nowhere, because these sorts of incidents are largely ignored by the media.
Way to go Ramirez wrote on Aug 7, 2008 8:40 AM:These antics along with the insulting May 1st rallies that promote the illegal invasion of this country have once again served to inspire legal and true blue Americans to contact their representatives to make sure our borders are closed by building htis wall. We will continue to out number your followers and strengthen our laws to stop this invasion.
Ramirez a Quaker wrote on Aug 7, 2008 8:50 AM:Just further proof that this ... will ally with ANY group to try and gain legitimacy, but MORE importantly, financial support. I mean, God forbid he or any of the open border activists get legitimate jobs and actually pay taxes to support their illegal slaves, like the rest of us. How about ANY of these anti American losers, GO to Mexico, advocate, protest and demand IN Mexico for the citizens of Mexico IN their homeland? Never going to happen, there's NO money in that.
Eulalio wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:02 AM:Mr. Sifuentes, this is not newsworthy by any means. This blowhard wanted to create controversy, and you are providing him the forum. Apparently the BP had a reasonable belief to think this guy was possibly involved with alien smuggling. A federal felony by the way. They investigated further, and he was released. So what? Suspected drunk drivers are pulled over all the time. Some are arrested while some are released. Nothing sensational, so why all the fuss?
Dave wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:04 AM:Since Christian Ramirez "was detained to see what his role was and it was later determined that "there was not enough to arrest him." I tend to believe these are the actions of over zealous border patrol agents. Although since I was not there and I do not have all the facts I will not convict the man of wrong doing. What ever happened to innocent until proven guilty. As of right now Christian Ramirez is innocent. Alex Renteria the border patrol spokesman went on to say "The investigation was still open, but it "isn't going any further," I am confused is he saying the investigation "isn't going any further or his statement wasn't going any further" Perhaps all of you who want this American citizen deported and stripped of his American citizenship should realize just how Un-American you sound. I will hold my judgement of this man until all the facts are in. I certainly hope the border patrol agents are sure about what they did or it sounds like a lawsuit is inevitable.
On impunity wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:05 AM:I am a border resident myself, and I have seen how time and time again Border Patrol agents mistreat and abuse their authority with little or no accountability. I wonder if this is the kind of world the self-defined patriots want to be a part of. Instead of being armchair border wall promoters, they should live on the border and experience lockdown america and I'm sure their opinions will change.
Reasonable suspision wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:09 AM:is what BP need to detain someone. It is obvious that this wasn't the case in detaining Mr. Ramirez. The border patrol is not allowed to systematically detain who they don't like. If Mr. Ramirez was filming them detaining someone, then maybe they didn't want him to see an abuse of authority as it was taking place. Maybe we should place more accountability measures on how the border patrol conducts itself.
To on impunity wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:16 AM:Maybe you should get a job with the BP and see what it is first hand that they do. I have seen several different incidences where the BP has had to deal with"very difficult" people. They acted in the most professional manner. I am also glad to see the cops are getting the break this week and all the bas hers on the the border patrol. Seems that all the negative, authority hatters will be bashing someone new.
Jake of Chula Vista wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:19 AM:It turns out Christian Ramirez was released. If the Border Patrol really had a case there, I'm sure they would try everything in their power to detain him had a crime really been committed. This appears to be a case of overzealous enforcement by border agents not used to being watched. It sounds to me like some folks on this blog prefer to have a government that can do what it wants and in secrecy. Isn't it in our best interest to ensure that the border patrol be accountable and held to its actions when it violates peoples' rights?
To date noone wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:36 AM:has defined what an ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT is. America knows what a ILLEGAL ALIEN is but to date nobody has defined Illegal Immigrant, it isn't in the American dictionary, could this be a foriegn term and if it is, what is the country it orginated from?
I live near the border wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:40 AM:and have seen our Border Patrol Agents attacked over and over again by Mexicans with rocks and bottles. Time to make the Mexican Government accountable for the action of its citizens.
To Ed S wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:54 AM:The title of your article "Migrant rights advocate detained by Border Patrol" should have been: An ILLEGAL ALIEN ENABLER DETAINED BY BORDER PATROL. What's the matter Ed, still can't tell the difference? This guy obviously cares more about lawless illegals than the laws of this country. Shame on him and shame on you.
Bo wrote on Aug 7, 2008 10:11 AM:"The 31-year-old activist said his detention was a sign of the escalating tensions between immigrant rights activists and immigration authorities at the border." WHATEVER! His detention was a sign that he was suspected of illegal activity! The fact that they let him go without charges does not mean he is innocent. I was detained by the Border Patrol for smuggling illegal immgrants through the San Onofre checkpoint when I was 18. Back then the going rate to drive illegal immigrants through the checkpoint was $50 per person and minimum wage was $3.75, so quite a few of my High School friends would risk the drive. After a few hours I was released without charges, despite the fact that I was caught in the act with five illegal immigrants in my vehicle.
To the lawsuit frenzies... wrote on Aug 7, 2008 10:27 AM:You dont need "probable cause" to detain. You only need resonable suspicion that a crime is occuring, had occured, or is about to occur, and the person detained may in some way be involved. Detentions happen all the time during investigations that build probable cause for arrest. Please go to law school before you try a lawsuit.
Maya wrote on Aug 7, 2008 11:00 AM:These blogs are just proof how uneducated and un-american some of you bloggers are. You claim to be patriots, but you want to do away with due process and strip citizens of their rights protected by our constitution? Shame on you! Stop the intolerence and get a life! Christian, please do follow up and make sure these border patrol agents don't get away with harassment!
Faux Chuckles wrote on Aug 7, 2008 11:15 AM:On impunity -] wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:05 AM:
We are already living in lock down America because a lot of people want to do us harm, including those that are invading our land.
That is why children go through metal detectors to get into zero tolerance schools each day where if they forget and bring their nail clippers with them they are arrested and expelled. That is why we are stopped at vehicle check points while driving home at night to make sure we have not been driving drunk or without a license. That is why we are searched before boarding a plane at the airport.
It is an ugly world and I will always err on the side of prevention and put up with some inconvenience and bad attitudes for law enforcement if it keeps all of us safe, including you.
Pat wrote on Aug 7, 2008 11:18 AM:Way to go Border Patrol, anyone who is in favor of letting these illegal aliens into our country should be charged with treason and thrown in jail, not just questioned.
Keep up the good work BP, and for those that think the neighborhood people are being harassed only have the illegals and their activists to thank, not the BP for doing their job.
We true US citizens are sick and tired of giving our hard earned money to a bunch of free-loaders.
Solution wrote on Aug 7, 2008 11:38 AM:Double fencing with a road down the middle. Works for the Israelis.
Faux Chuckles wrote on Aug 7, 2008 11:52 AM:Maya [-] wrote on Aug 7, 2008 11:00 AM:These blogs are just proof how uneducated and un-american some of you bloggers are.
I hope you were looking int he mirror when you wrote this ...
Faux Chuckles wrote on Aug 7, 2008 11:55 AM:I am extremely amused by the pro-illegal supporters telling true blue Americans that they are un-american and living in a police state when Mexico is about as bad as it gets if you are a gringo supected of a crime. ...
Faux Chuckles wrote on Aug 7, 2008 11:58 AM:by the comments that have not beenposted, it seems NCT has a pro-illegal editor today, Big Ed maybe?
aztlanbuster wrote on Aug 7, 2008 12:20 PM:San Diego Channel 6 NEWS tonight or tomorrow at 10am, they're on this.
Pravda wrote on Aug 7, 2008 12:21 PM:Claiming to be a Patriot because your a bigot is as creditable as fox news espousing that they are fair and balanced.Patriots fight for the rights of the oppressed!
For Maya wrote on Aug 7, 2008 12:29 PM:Speaking of uneducated:
For legal purposes, an "ALIEN" is any person not a citizen or a national of the United States. [There are different categories of aliens: resident and nonresident, immigrant and nonimmigrant, documented and undocumented ("illegal")].
The more politically correct version is "IMMIGRANT". It is defined as:
A person who leaves one country to settle permanently in another. [like my grandfather from Ireland]
A plant or animal that establishes itself in an area where it previously did not exist. [like my front yard]
So...if they are not US Citizens, they are ALIENS. Unless we are talking about Crabgrass dear.
Faux chuckles wrote on Aug 7, 2008 12:31 PM:Pravda [-] wrote on Aug 7, 2008 12:21 PM:
We ARE fighting for the rights of the oppressed. Americans oppressed by an illegal invasion and their treasonous enablers. I am not bigoted because I don't care where they come from or what they look like, I willnot let them take any more from me.
No-Spin Doctor. wrote on Aug 7, 2008 12:37 PM:I propose a new law. This law would make the parents deportable if their child ... joins a criminal street gang. Are we listening Mr. Billbray?
No-Spin Doctor wrote on Aug 7, 2008 1:00 PM:I have a good idea why most newspapers in a America want open borders. With open borders will come massive amounts of crime, disease, and lawlessness. Imagine the size of this, or any other paper that can now report on thousands of crimes perday, instead of hundreds.
edizz wrote on Aug 7, 2008 1:04 PM:It's funny how the majority of the people that have responded claim Mr. Ramirez is an enabler to illegial immigrants. "We have never asked anyone to cross illegally, and it is our policy to ask people not to cross because of the dangers involved." It sure sounds to me like he is advising illegals not to cross. Oh well, I'm "enabling" a bunch of bigoted, racist people to reply to me.
Oh Please Bo wrote on Aug 7, 2008 1:21 PM:You are a not being truthful about that incident. Or maybe you are because if you and your buddies are white their will be no consequences. We know whites are treated differently than people of color it is the way of the world. Obviously they only detain Latino for such crimes even if they are fabricated. After all we all know that white people do not commit crimes!!! This is harassment and I hope this guy teaches the government a very expensive lesson.
CS wrote on Aug 7, 2008 1:28 PM:This was a set up and the BP acted professionally. This ...(Ramirez) was only released because the BP and Homeland Security is keeping this in their back pocket for future use. That's why the case is still open. Next time this happens, this ... will be locked in the slammer with all his illegal-alien buddies.
to edizz from Daphne wrote on Aug 7, 2008 1:34 PM:Don't worry about the redundant posts. They are the same 6 people posting, posting, commenting, and posting some more. I think some of these people need a life and a job. Perhaps they should go to one of the many day labor sites in their area and seek work. I don't let this blog bother me because I know it is the same old people spewing the same old rhetoric. Nothing changes but the name they use. We are on to you!!! I don't really take them seriously. The only thing I take seriously is when they actually write a letter to the editor and say what they have to say publicly instead of hiding behind a code name.
Patriot wrote on Aug 7, 2008 2:55 PM:pa·tri·ot Listen to the pronunciation of patriot
Pronunciation:
\ˈpā-trē-ət, -ˌät, chiefly British ˈpa-trē-ət\
Function:
noun
Etymology:
Middle French patriote compatriot, from Late Latin patriota, from Greek patriōtēs, from patria lineage, from patr-, patēr father
Date:
1605
: one who loves his or her country and supports its authority and interests
To to edizz from Daphne wrote on Aug 7, 2008 3:01 PM:For not caring, you really ramble. I'd hate to see what would spew forth if you did.
Nick wrote on Aug 7, 2008 4:41 PM:That's pretty funny "Daphne", considering that everytime there is an article on Illegals, you are one of the same 6 people making the same redundant, Pro-Illegal posts.
That's OK though because I really don't take you seriously. Maybe you should write a letter to the editor so some folks will.
And unlike some folks, I always use my real name, and if you have been around long enough, you would have seen my last name with it from the letters to the editor I have written.
Nice try, but the same old Pro-Illegal loving "Daphne".
Gerry wrote on Aug 7, 2008 4:43 PM:Facts
• Crossing the border, so-called “illegally” is not a criminal offence, it’s civil, like a traffic ticket
• The majority of your criminal and gang bangers or born and are raised in the U.S, cant deport Americans
• Mexicans are more will behaved, go to a carnival in Mexico (Ensenada) then go to New Orleans mardi gras, you will see what I mean
• The U.S. is more dangerous then Mexico, ask all the European tourist you losing
• Americans have one of the lowest health ratings in the world, go deep into Mexico 90 ,100 is not uncommon, maybe its your over process hormone treated foods
• The U.S. has a long history of blaming disease and crime on other country, its part of your culture
• I understand fully why the U.S. has so many enemies, now you’re trying to make enemies with Mexico not very smart, especially when you consider Mexico is California’s biggest customer of products and the U.S. Second in the world supporting millions of Jobs in the U.S. whom export to Mexico I don’t know what you call it I call its stupid “Ill will be surprised, if my information gets posted” shocked
To Maya wrote on Aug 7, 2008 4:55 PM:Why don't you and Ramirez go down to the Southern Mexican border, and help tho poor Guatamalens trying so hard to get into Mexico? I'm a son of Mexican Immigrants, and I'm sick of all this illegal law breakers too. I'm joining the Border Patrol to help my country stop the invasion of law breakers. I Know there are good people trying to improve their lives, but if I catch them, back across they go.
Hmmmm wrote on Aug 7, 2008 5:05 PM:No charges? As in no crime?
I can never remember if there are 1 or 2 Rs in harrassment.
To Gerry wrote on Aug 7, 2008 5:57 PM:Gerry, I beg to differ.
-A traffic ticket is a CRIMINAL offense, an infraction. It deals in CRIMINAL law, not civil. A civil "crime" is called a tort. Entering the country illegally is a CRIME, not a tort...and therefore it is a criminal offense, not a civil one. It does not always carry prison time, but it is a crime.
-Comparing illegal immigrants and Marti-gras is not logical. Comparing Cinco de Mayo(Or the may day "fests") and Mardi Gras is a better comparison.
-Your statement about the US being more dangerous does not hold weight in crime statistics. It further does not represent the "dark figure of crime" which is the crime that goes unreported...a rate much higher in Mexico, as the people do not trust police there.
-The US is still the best country in the world, and we DO NOT need to import any problems, whether it be crime, disease, a lack of respect for law, or an unacceptance of OUR COUNTRY's culture and heritage. Please take your anti-American rhetoric and propoganda elsewhere...Americans are fed up with it and the pendulum is about to swing back full force.
To Maya wrote on Aug 7, 2008 8:25 PM:What do you mean by un-american? It's nothing but a word to disguise and hide behind your pro-illegal rqcist remarks. It sound so patriotic.
Sifuentes shouldnt be reporting on this wrote on Aug 7, 2008 8:45 PM:Sifuentes is obviously pro illegal immigrant. This is NOT reporting - it is trying to promote illegal immigration.
to Bo wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:47 PM:That's why US Citizens have been used to traffic people & drugs, b/c US attorneys didn't necessarily go after criminals like you. These days, try doing the same criminal act & it will be a different story from the feds. On the other hand, Ramirez apparently didn't do anything unlawful, otherwise he would have been detained. Just think about it, Ramirez, a known activist in the hands of the border patrol, wouldn't it make sense to keep him in and shut down his operation? I tend to think in this case the Border Patrol got it wrong. They over reacted and messed up, again, as they are prone to do.
hey aztlanbuster wrote on Aug 7, 2008 10:33 PM:so what time did fox 6 news interview you for the shoddy soundbyte? you guys need better spokespersons, that 12 year old renteria guy still needs lots of breaking in. you should release the video, you always keep them to yourselves when you make wild claims of wires, molotov cocktails, and other baseless claims.
Local wrote on Aug 8, 2008 4:07 AM:When you are the news you don't need to see what is doctored for profit. Look around you, attend a city council meeting or watch it on TV. Get the facts firsthand. Then you will understand what we are dealing with. WAKE UP!
Gerry wrote on Aug 8, 2008 1:57 PM:No name, Bag to differ: bag all you want, crossing the border without documents is a civil administrative law violation, whats even more stupid, is the antiimmagrant morons tread to make it a felony, how do you go from civil, skip over a misdemeanor and go straight for a felony? Whats their crime? Doing what a lazy drug addict American wont do “Manuel work” that’s why U.S. Company are leaving and much more are going leave Commerce has already warned
Must of the Participant in the Cinco de Mayo or U.S. Citizens and legal residence whom may have a relative who’s not, so called
Most Americans don’t even know what a Mexican is they thing Americans are Mexicans and Mexicans are Spanish
Mexico is safer than a lot of U.S. Cities I’m more concerned about some nut case Americans than some one from Mexico, Mexicans resorts or safer, ask the European your losing. Go to Hawaii it’s the Meth (ice) capital of the world, notice the U.S. keeps it quite
Anti-American? How about an embarrassed American? Especially how Americans act in Mexico, the U.S. would justify the killing of Jesus Chris, I’m sick of your propaganda and slander towards, Mexico, you don’t even relies your cutting your own economic throat, their more from me to come, if allowed
Facts
Most of the smugglers (people and drugs) crossing the border are from the U.S., look at their license plate
A lot of the Killing in Mexico is being done by scum from the U.S. ever heard of the Mexican Mafia? Gauss what? their not from Mexico their from the U.S.
ThisAmerican wrote on Aug 8, 2008 7:31 PM:Funny, I notice most of the pro illegal bloggers, anti American bloggers, pro Ramirez bloggers have little to no command of the English language. That's because a) they themselves are illegals b) they are victims of the non educating, social experiment factories passing themselves off as American public schools or c) they don't EVEN live in the US, so really have no say in the matter. Any way you slice it, anti Americans like Ramirez and the other hateful bloggers, suck.
Gerry wrote on Aug 8, 2008 11:33 PM:My Response to: ThisAmerican’ I'm illegal?? I’m a white dude born in New Orleans, thanks for the offer of your English class, but I’m not interested. You understand every word I’m writing
I’m un-American? because I don’t agree with the way innocent decent hard working Mexicans are treated? Slandered and propagandized? You have no idea how Beneficial those workers are to are economy, Most Americans are to stupid to relies it
I will explain to you what racism is:
Racism-Mexicans don’t pay taxes
Fact the I.R.S. has what is named sit assed funds, Names that don’t match S.S. numbers, their collecting over 70 billion a year and gauss were it goes? In their pockets, illegal pay taxes, if anyone says thay don’t, that person is a liar
Racism-Mexicans come to the U.S. to collect welfare
Fact Mexicans come hear to work, send money back to Mexico and in most cases return to Mexico, their not coming hear to immigrate, their hear for economic reason, those Mexicans do not consider the U.S. Their home México is their home, considering the populations of Mexico, their are few illegals hear, don’t confuse Chicanos with Mexicans
Racism Mexicans want to take over America and live hear
Fact it’s not illegal to live in the U.S. without documents, as long as you don’t work hear
Millions of Mexicans who live in Mexico have border crossing Cards, which means thay can cross 24hours a day 365 days a year, so why don’t thay just cross and stay hear? Thay have already cross the border, because thay don’t wont to, that’s way
Racism Mexicans bring disease to the U.S.
Fact I have been all over Mexico and see healthy people all over Mexico, probably because of their dispossessions and diet, that’s why you see 80 90 100 year old people dancing in the park, the U.S. are the fattest people on earth, high rates of cancer, diabetes, their is epidemic of sexually transmitted disease and unwanted pregnancy, you hepatitis and tuberculosis is coming from, a weak immune system, probably from sticking needles in your arms, unnatural sex and what I call “dead food” have you ever hear of the All Americans flu? The Californian fruit fly? Get the point, a blame game, the U.S. has played throughout their entire history
Racism Mexicans cause crime in the U.S.
Fact Mexicans overall are more well behaved and more law abiding then native born Americans Mexicans keep a low profile, if thay get in trouble thay can be deported, you can also be deported if you don’t have documents 95 % of your gang bangers are born in or are raised hear, Chicanos are not Mexicans, their Americans. El Salvadoran Gangs? just because a person is born in El Salvador doesn’t mean his from El Salvador, he’s from the Streets of America, if you go to the Jails in El Salvador, the Gangs banger all speak English, I wonder why?? Why is the U.S trying to make it look like, this gang cames from El Salvador? As I said, ever hear of the All Americans flu? You get the point
OMG wrote on Aug 9, 2008 8:05 PM:Gerry...you just proved ThisAmerican's point. I do believe YOU need to check, "ALL of the above". WOW, such ignorance and illiteracy.
Gerry wrote on Aug 10, 2008 10:52 AM:My Response to OMG
Is that it, is that all you got, a grade in Spelling and Grammar? As I said in my earlier log, you understand every word I’m saying, I’m not interested in your Spelling and Grammar Class, give the award to someone else
Gerry wrote on Aug 10, 2008 11:48 AM:What is NAFTA?
Must Americans don’t know, including U.S. Politicians? What is the truth?
Mexico buys more Products from the U.S then the combination of the four European members of the G-7: Britain, France, Germany and Italy. Second largest, Behind Canada “in the World”
Millions of Jobs in the U.S. have been created because of Mexico’s imports, so what ever effects Mexico will affect the U.S.
That’s why the U.S. was pushing for Nafta, it’s a tariff bill, Americans are under the elusion that it’s a job transfer, U.S. Jobs to Mexico. U.S. Jobs were going to Mexico years before Nafta, and because of your Immigration Policy, more will be leaving, downsizing (layoffs) and going out of business, the small fish feed the big fish, when the little jobs die the Big one starve to death or leave dodge
Hospitals in the U.S. are soliciting Nurses from Mexico offering Homes and Bonuses, thay can’t find nurses and you think Americans are going to pick strawberries?
Do you know who has the largest amount of Super Wal-Mart 2nd behind the U.S.? That’s right Mexico
The U.S. doesn’t even respect their own agreements example: Mexican trucks are dangerous
Fact: Mexican Trucking is just as safe as U.S. Trucks, in fact long hauled Mexican truckers have a safer record then U.S. long haulers, source: U.S. Transportation and Highway patrol inspection records, so Who’s behind this propaganda? Can you say Teamsters “Bingo”
You people better wake up, before it’s to late, theirs going to be a lot of changes in Mexico and its not going to be in your favor
Gerry wrote on Aug 10, 2008 12:20 PM:To All people, who think the la Raza are Mexicans from Mexico, your mistaking, their Americans. It’s more an issue of Political power, theirs too many Whites in power, who only look out for their white interest, which can mean, anything right or wrong, which doesn’t necessarily mean Justice and human dignity for all
Gerry wrote on Aug 10, 2008 10:56 PM:North County Times
I want to thank you for given me the opportunity to state my point of view, from now on I will really try to be brief in my comments, if I make anymore comments, I was surprised
I have found when I call most Radio Talk show host without naming names, must stick their tails between the lags and run; you hear a clicking hung up nose, an electronic run away
Thanks
G.A.
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