In contrast, W. Garrett Chamberlain, police chief of New Ipswich, N.H., has garnered widespread attention by arresting them even when politically correct jurisdictions turn a blind eye to their presence.
Specifically, he charges them with "criminal trespass." New Hampshire law states that "a person is guilty of criminal trespass if, knowing he is not licensed or privileged to do so, he enters or remains in any place." Conviction carries a fine of up to $1,000.
In response to his action, the police chief has received an avalanche of positive communications from soldiers and law enforcement personnel around the world.
In fact, the popularity of the move has prompted Richard E. Gendron, the police chief in nearby Hudson, to follow Chief Chamberlain's example. He charged two illegal aliens from Mexico with trespassing after their van was stopped with a broken headlight.
Not everyone endorses these actions. "The Mexican government was understandably worried that this could become the charge du jour across the country," said Claire Ebel, executive director of the New Hampshire affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union.
In addition, the Mexican Consulate has hired an attorney for José Mora Ramirez, 21, who was apprehended for trespassing in New Ipswich. Mexican officials fear that his conviction could set a national precedent.
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, a Mexican-American who has an eye on succeeding President Bush in 2008, recently told journalists that legal action toward illegal immigrants "should be done by federal law enforcement. This should not be done by local police chiefs."
The objections of Mr. Richardson aside, why have Chief Chamberlain and Chief Gendron won more bouquets than brickbats for their crackdown?
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"In addition, the Mexican Consulate has hired an attorney for José Mora Ramirez, 21, who was apprehended for trespassing in New Ipswich. Mexican officials fear that his conviction could set a national precedent."
Wouldn't it be better to have spent the money they are throwing at the lawyer and hire five or six Ramirezes?