Illegal Immigrant Roundup Unnerves, Pleases Sand Mountain Residents

http://www.waaytv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7031877

SAND MOUNTAIN, Ala. (WAAY) -- Federal agents were still hauling in suspects Wednesday in what appears to be a major roundup of illegal immigrants in DeKalb and Marshall counties, as the massive sting operation stirred up some strong feelings in many communities.

Operation Clean Sweep took Sand Mountain by storm on Tuesday, and many in the community had strong reactions -- good and bad -- to the roundup.

"Too late, it should've happened sooner and more often," one resident told WAAY-31 News.

"I thought that was great," said another. "They need to load them all up."

Silvino Ramirez had heard reports about Operation Clean Sweep, and was quick to show WAAY-31 News his resident alien card. Ramirez said his family and so many others are here for one simple reason.

When asked in Spanish why he came to the United States, Ramirez said, "Porque in Mexico, no mucho trabajar en Mexico." ("There's not much work in Mexico, not much work at all.")

He said that's not the case in the U.S., where he's found a lot of work. Ramirez said he works hard and lives honestly. He acknowledges that many of his countrymen are here illegally, but said anyone else in the same position would do the same thing.

But illegal or not, many of his new neighbors said the law simply has to be enforced.

"They're illegal," said one. "That says it all, doesn't it?"

It is unknown how many Hispanics -- both legal residents and illegal immigrants -- currently live in Marshall and Dekalb counties.

Reporter: Nick Banaszak
Web Editor: Dana Franks