Signs in East Naples spark immigration debate

EAST NAPLES: A shocking sign made its way onto a busy road in East Naples on Sunday.

Someone posted a street sign on Radio Road warning drivers to watch for illegal immigrants.

And there isn't just one.

Signs were posted on both sides, just before a pedestrian crossing.

The county has taken down the signs, but the controversial act has sparked debate in Collier County.

Local residents are shocked, but some are not surprised by the act.

"I drove by and did a double-take. At first, I thought I didn't just read that," says Simone Hatch, a Naples resident. "I'm very angry. They're cowards. That's what I think."

Janeth Ramirez came to Florida from Mexico. She says this is no surprise in her community. "Not everyone is illegal. It's supposed to be democratic and freedom, but that's not how it is."

Some residents found humor in the signs, but they declined to be interviewed.

The county worker tasked with removing the signs said they aren't Collier County's.

Whoever put the signs up did it under cover of darkness.

And, in doing so, they shed local light on a topic of national debate.

http://www.nbc-2.com/Global/story.asp?S=12866834