Educate Yourself On Immigration
To the editor:
To the writers of “Our Friends In Fear” and “ICE Visit to La Grange.”
Let’s start with a brief history of immigration in the United States which has been long and has gone through a number of changes. From the 1790-1880 where the early republic maintained relatively open borders, encouraging European settlement to expand the western frontier. The Nationality Act of 1790 established the first rules for naturalization, restricting citizenship to “free white persons.” To 2001–Present with Post-9/11 security concerns, economic downturns, and geopolitical crises in Central America led to intensified border enforcement, shifts in asylum policies, and ongoing, contentious debates regarding comprehensive immigration reform.
I know it’s a foreign concept for some who write letters to the editor to do any research before they spew their hysteria, hate, and blatant disregard for the laws of America; but here we are. I suggest anyone who wants to have a conversation about illegal immigration should educate themselves on current immigration law. Here’s some help… Improper Entry (8 U.S.C. § 1325); Illegal Re-entry (8 U.S.C. § 1326); Harboring and Transporting (8 U.S.C. § 1324).
To Ms. Reid’s letter – what questions were asked that didn’t receive answers? The quote referenced in the letter was placed on the Statute of Liberty in 1903. There were a number of immigration requirements in place by then such as passing strict health, political, and financial screenings; that being the ability to support themselves and not become a “public charge.” Recent analysis from the Center for Immigration Studies estimate that approximately 61% of households headed by unauthorized immigrants use one or more major welfare programs, a rate largely driven by benefits received on behalf of their U.S.born children. The Supreme Court made a huge mistake in its latest ruling on birthright citizenship. The 14th Amendment was enacted for one reason… to grant citizenship to formerly enslaved people and to protect their civil rights. It’s unlikely the authors of the 14th Amendment envisioned a political party that would use the 14th Amendment to allow a mass invasion of illegal aliens into the United States so they could have children who would automatically become citizens.
To Mr. Bresenhan’s letter – Let’s start with “…local mechanic….driving with a license plate on the dash and an uncovered trailer.” Facts – License plate - Texas Transportation Code 504.943 states most passenger vehicles and trucks have to display two license plates—one on the front and one on the rear. It is illegal to place a license plate inside the front windshield. Uncovered Trailer - Texas Transportation Code § 725.021, any vehicle carrying loose materials (such as gravel, dirt, trash, or debris) is required to have its load covered and firmly secured at the front and back, unless the load is completely enclosed by the truck bed or cannot possibly blow out.
To “…reported the Sheriff’s deputy was told by immigration that the man had no legal issues.” Texas law (Senate Bill 4), local and state law enforcement can still arrest an individual for the state crime of illegal entry or re-entry, even if federal immigration authorities clear them of administrative violations. State Charges: An individual can be charged with state-level “illegal entry” (a misdemeanor) or “illegal reentry” (a felony), regardless of their current federal immigration status or whether federal agencies have active deportation orders. Federal vs. State: State-level probable cause allows police to make the arrest, even if federal agencies like U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) do not have an active hold on the person. Judicial Orders: Following a state arrest, the individual may be brought before a magistrate or judge who can issue a return order back to the foreign nation.
Can ICE stop a law-abiding driver…Yes, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers can stop vehicles, but they are governed by highly specific federal restrictions. The rules for ICE vehicle stops include the following: Reasonable Suspicion Required: ICE officers are generally barred from pulling vehicles over based on a “hunch” or for general traffic violations. They must have specific, articulable facts that establish reasonable suspicion that an occupant in the vehicle lacks lawful immigration status. No Traffic Enforcement: ICE agents do not have the legal authority to enforce state or local traffic laws (such as speeding or a broken taillight). By policy, they are prohibited from telling drivers or passengers that a stop is related to a vehicle violation. Warrantless Arrest Constraints: While ICE can make collateral arrests or vehicle stops without a judicial warrant, strict guidelines apply. Officers are required to determine that a person is likely to escape before a warrant can be obtained, taking into account community ties and flight risk.
What ICE May Ask For: Non-citizens: By law, noncitizens over the age of 18 are required to carry valid, unexpired immigration documents at all times (e.g., a Green Card, employment authorization document, or valid visa). U.S. Citizens: U.S. citizens are not legally required to carry proof of citizenship on their person. However, identifying yourself verbally as a U.S. citizen can resolve encounters. If Driving: If you are operating a vehicle, ICE (or local police) can legally ask to see your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.
If you’re pulled over, you have the right to remain silent and you do not have to consent to a search of your vehicle. That also pertains to your home. There are possible consequences to do so, though.
I understand the reasons people come to this country. America is the greatest country this planet has ever seen. That being said, if people come here illegally and make no attempt to become a citizen, then if they are caught, they should be sent back to their country of origin. If they have no respect for our laws, they shouldn’t be here. There is no country on this planet that permits illegal entry.
Lastly, Mr. Bresenhan, it’s not the FCR’s responsibility to educate you on immigration law or any other law, it’s yours. The above information took less than a half hour to research.