FAIR Applauds Commuting of Sentences for Ramos and Compean

Jan. 19, 2009

WASHINGTON , Jan. 19 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Dan Stein , president of the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) issued the following statement regarding former Border Patrol Agents Ramos and Compean:

"FAIR, and all Americans who value justice and the sacrifice of the men and women who protect our nation, are gratified by President Bush's decision, on his final day in office, to commute the sentences of former Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean . Ramos and Compean were prosecuted, convicted and given 11 and 12-year sentences respectively for actions they took while confronting an illegal alien drug smuggler at the border in 2005. Americans across the country felt this case was unjust not only because of the severity of the sentences, but because the testimony of a self-admitted repeat drug runner prevailed over the testimony of two decorated Border Patrol officers who were carrying out their responsibilities and protecting their own lives.

"The people who serve this nation in the Border Patrol play a vital role in protecting the safety and security of the people of the United States . They serve under increasingly difficult circumstances and deserve the support of the American people and their government.

"FAIR deeply regrets the pain and suffering that they and their families have endured. We are delighted that their ordeal has come to an end, that justice has been served, and that they will soon be reunited with their families."

About FAIR

Founded in 1979, FAIR is the country's largest and most experienced immigration reform organization. With over 250,000 members nationwide, FAIR fights for immigration policies that serve national interests, not special interests. FAIR believes that immigration reform must enhance national security, improve the economy, protect jobs, preserve our environment, and establish a rule of law that is recognized and enforced.

SOURCE FAIR

Copyright © 2008 PR Newswire Association LLC. All Rights Reserved.