Residents living in Texas border towns are facing significant challenges as migrants continue to cross private properties along the California-Mexico border. The situation has become so dire that some locals have been forced to sell their family businesses due to repeated thefts and property damage.
One such resident is Brian Silvas, a Jacumba Hot Springs resident, who expressed his frustration with the ongoing issue. He revealed that every day, he witnesses migrants trekking across his 78-acre property, which is located about 75 miles east of San Diego. Silvas, like many others, feels helpless as human caravans regularly cut through their land.
Silvas stated, “If I had the money, I would build my own wall right here!” He emphasized that while he understands the country’s history of immigration, the current situation is untenable. He believes that the continuous influx of migrants through private property is ridiculous and needs to be addressed.
According to data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, San Diego Border Patrol agents encountered over 230,000 migrants in the 2023 fiscal year, the highest number in decades. This is a significant increase compared to the previous years, with 176,000 encounters in the previous year and only 53,000 in 2020.
In response to the escalating situation, San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond called for the border to be closed to new immigration. His remarks came after a leaked Customs and Border Protection memo from the San Diego Field Office suggested that individuals inspired by or reacting to the Israel-Hamas conflict might attempt to cross into the U.S. via the southern border.
The challenges faced by residents extend beyond Brian Silvas. Jerry and Maria Shuster, who have lived in Jacumba Hot Springs for over 40 years, are also experiencing a migrant emergency. The couple regularly witnesses migrants camping on their 17-acre property, leaving behind tents, clothes, and trash. In some instances, the migrants even dismantle their fences for firewood.
Maria Shuster expressed her frustration, stating, “The government should do something to stop this illegal immigration. Stop it because [the migrants aren’t] helping us; they’re destroying us.” She emphasized the unequal treatment, remarking that migrants seem to have more rights than the local residents.
The situation has become so severe that some residents have been forced to sell their family businesses due to the ongoing thefts and property damage. The struggle faced by Texas border town residents highlights the need for effective border security measures to protect private properties and preserve the livelihoods of those living in these communities.
In summary, the continuous influx of migrants crossing private properties along the Texas border is causing significant distress for local residents. The thefts, property damage, and destruction of personal belongings have led some to sell their family businesses. The situation calls for urgent action and effective border security measures to address the concerns of these Texas border town residents.
