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Undocumented immigrants seek dismissal of charges
By Associated Press

NASHUA, N.H. - Two more illegal immigrants from Mexico have challenged the trespassing charges filed against them by local police.

Sergio Ruiz-Robles, 21, and Margarito Jaramillo Escobar, 23, both of Nashua, pleaded innocent in Nashua District Court to criminal trespassing.

The men did not speak to reporters after their court appearance Thursday, but lawyer Mona Movafaghi said they seek to have the charges dismissed on grounds the federal government is responsible for regulating immigration. A hearing is scheduled for July 22.

Hudson police stopped the men May 12 for defective equipment on their car. Ruiz-Robles also is charged with driving without a license.

The charges came several weeks after New Ipswich police charged a Mexican man, Jorge Ramirez, 21, with criminal trespassing and driving without a license after his vehicle broke down. Ramirez initially pleaded guilty in Jaffrey-Peterborough District Court, but withdrew the plea and is awaiting trial.

New Ipswich Police Chief Garrett Chamberlains use of the criminal trespassing charge has attracted international attention and won support from critics of perceived lax enforcement of federal immigration laws.

The trespassing law prohibits someone who, "knowing that he is not licensed or privileged to do so ... enters or remains in any place." The charge is a violation, comparable to a traffic ticket.

The motion to dismiss argues that convicting the men of trespassing would have an "illogical, unjust and absurd result."

Police, who plan to respond to the motion, "obviously disagree," Capt. Ray Mello said.