Why SRT Stays On Top Of Border Statistics
…It’s typically very hot in Southern Arizona and it’s not a lot of fun walking with the border agents as they perform their job. We were there for 3 trips in 2017, they are there every day. But tracking statistics is important in terms of trends and for SRT Outdoors, the impact of Illegals and drug mules takes its toll on the environment. The numbers on this page tell you “why” they keep trying and by far the biggest problem is DRUGS.
Riding with the U.S. Border Patrol
Ajo and Nogales, AZ – To be invited to ride with the US Border Patrol and AZ Fish & Game is a special privilege. Of the three trips Shake, Rattle & Troll has made, we were advised from the onset that there was always the possibility of two things, that we could encounter immigrants, illegal or otherwise and if required as support for an arrest, we would be support for the arresting crew (back up).
The focus of our invitations to ride along with the Border Patrol and Game & Fish was to see firsthand the reality of what is required to secure our borders and to ascertain the issues they face with immigrants but more so the relationship between agents and hunters in these southern sectors. By the end of the day, we developed a great relationship with the Agents who allowed us to “ride along”.
Don McDowell, Doug Stricker and Cat Thor represented not just the hunters and outdoorsmen of Arizona, but the general public as well along with the many visitors of Organ Pipe Cactus National Park and Cabeza Prieta Wildlife Refuge, both visited by millions of Americans each year and although we think we know the reality of this area and presume the border is a stronghold, it is not as you would think.
For up close and personal, to touch the fence itself and witness the life of a Border Patrol agent is definitely a reality check. Between the Border Patrol and the National Park Service agents, visitation by the general public along with hunters and fishermen has increased over the years and generally, they rarely have encounters with immigrants or drug mules.
What Do I Do If I Encounter Illegals?
Call 911 First. That will ensure an immediate response to the situation and deploy the proper and closest LEO agency to render assistance to you. If you see something, say something. The days of don’t ask don’t tell have long since expired. Report immediately what you see to the appropriate agency, report, illegal’s to the USBP, game violations to OGT . Do not engage yourself, report it. Most of us have GPS devices or on our phones, way points are always good, road numbers and approximate distance from known landmarks. Take note of how many persons involved, clothing descriptions, height, weight etc., vehicle information if involved and direction of travel. If there’s any doubt in your mind what you’re encountering or who to call, call 911. Don’t risk it!
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