Illegal Immigrants Blamed for Home Invasions

Updated: Friday, 12 Feb 2010, 1:35 PM MST
Published : Friday, 12 Feb 2010, 1:35 PM MST

RODEO, N.M. (AP) -- Concern, frustration and even fear are running high for residents of Rodeo in southwestern New Mexico.

Rural residents say home invasions and vandalism are on the rise in the state's bootheel region and across the state line in southeastern Arizona.

Many residents blame illegal immigrants.

Last month, an elderly Arizona couple was tied up in their home west of the New Mexico border. The couple wasn't seriously harmed, but their vehicle and some belongings were stolen. Two illegal immigrants were later arrested.

Since then, at least one home invasion was reported on a Rodeo-area ranch. The occupant wasn't injured.

Border Patrol spokesman Ramiro Cordero says the agency is aware of one report of a home invasion in the bootheel but acknowledged there may be more, since local authorities respond to those crimes.

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