"Border War"

“Border War” was a very interesting documentary on illegal immigrants and some of the ways they sneak across the border into America. To some this is a big problem that needs some sort of solution. This is why we have a border patrol. Mr. Maheda is a border patrol officer who had some information to share with us individuals who are less educated on the issue. He explained how smugglers gather large groups of immigrants and help them get into America. These smugglers also referred to as scouts, make a good deal of money for what they do. After sneaking these individuals across the border, they offer up safe houses for these illegal immigrants to stay in until they venture further in land away from the border. We heard the story of Lupe Moreno and how he ran a safe house. At first they were living out of a garage and hosting illegal immigrants there. His wife said that she would not put up with anymore illegal activity when they moved to their new home. Lupe Moreno did not abide by her standards and she was forced to flee the family. This safe house was the second one instated in California, which was later discovered when his daughter would talk about the issue. She did not like all the new company and even slept with one of the immigrants who was staying there. She was often molested and had two kids by the age fifteen. Congressman J.D. Hayworth, stated that out of all immigrants 4,500 make it across illegally. He believes that to correct the problem we need to enforce existing laws and close out all other options. Illegal Immigrants are usually coming to the United States to work, but some find themselves caught up in the drug smuggling process. In saying this, there are many individuals who believe that this issue is a big problem, where others like Enrique believe otherwise. In the 1980’s Enrique was a part of the “Border Angels” who would march up into the canyons and provide these illegal immigrants with supplies like food and water. He believes that they are just crossing to improve their lives and doesn’t see much harm in the influx of immigrants. We heard the tragic story of Officer Dave Marsh who was shot and killed by Ormondo Garcia. Garcia was a ruthless individual who had been deported three times, was here illegally, and didn’t like being told what to do by law enforcers. There are many illegal immigrants who have crossed into America and been unidentified. These immigrants when they pass away, whether it is because of the long journey or illness, are buried in Terrace Park Cemetery. This cemetery hosts 400 immigrants that have not been identified. Another interesting aspect was the discovery of the tunnel that stretched from Arizona to Mexico and was used to transport illegal drugs. This passage was tricky to find because when they were not transporting drugs they would disguise the tunnel by flooding it. The documentary was very informative and offered opinions from the pro and con aspect. There are many individuals who are very passionate about this topic, and stand behind their beliefs making the issue harder to control.

Information from: Border War Documentary and Speakers