Border town residents react to immigration policy

The newest immigration policy implemented in April has local residents speaking out.

Being that we’re so close to the border, we have seen our fair share of families crossing the border illegally.

According to Customs and Border Protection, the Yuma Sector saw 3,241 minors attempting to enter the country with their families in 2017.

For the El Centro sector, CBP data shows 968 children trying to enter the country with their family.

Since October 2017, there have been more than 8,700 family unit apprehensions in Yuma. That’s an increase of 116 percent compared to last fiscal year.

For El Centro, there have been more than 1,600 family arrests this fiscal year.

Yuma County residents are divided over this policy.

“I have mixed emotions about it. I think it’s great for anybody entering the country legally, everybody is welcome. If they’re entering it illegally not so much,” said Randy Block.

“That’s totally sad. Yes, I… I disagree with that. It shouldn’t be like that at all,” said Cecila Brown.

“It is obviously a hothead issue but we need to all remember that everybody is human and be, you know, act humane towards others. It’s… it’s a big issue obviously. Look if you want to enter the country I do believe so doing so legally,” said Dena DuBois.

The policy prosecutes first-time offenders, forcing the separation of children from their families at the border. Those children are then sent to shelters. Before the policy change, those who were trying to enter the country illegally were still referred to for prosecution. However, there were exceptions for adults with children. There are a number of rallies happening throughout the nation against this policy including in Phoenix, San Diego, and Los Angeles.