‘Arrogance of Power’

The Times has stooped to a new low in journalism by self-appointing itself as judge and jury over the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service while flagrantly disregarding the facts in its editorial (May 1), “Arrogance of Power.”

For the record, Americans for Border Control are concerned citizens from a variety of professional backgrounds, ethnic roots and divergent political affiliations bonded together by the serious dangers to U.S. security and economic stability created by uncontrolled immigration across our southern border. To label the formation of this group a “corruption of professional standards” on my part is unjust and irresponsible. We live in a democracy that derives its strength from our ability to organize affirmative movements.

The editorial also misrepresented the two other issues discussed. I will not apologize for the fact that a Border Patrol agent was exonerated by the San Diego Police Department and district attorney in the unfortunate wounding of a Mexican boy intent on injuring our agents. Further, the INS district director in Miami has granted only eight stays of deportation for Nicaraguans after a thorough case-by-case review. This does not reflect a national policy decision that no Nicaraguans will be returned. Deportations to El Salvador and Guatemala are subject to the same reviews.

Finally, even The Times should be alarmed that our country is facing a national crisis when we are on the brink of apprehending 2 million illegal aliens this year.

HAROLD W. EZELL

Regional Commissioner

Immigration and

Naturalization Service

San Pedro