Cochise County Militia to cease operation

By Shar Porier
WICK NEWS SERVICE
Published/Last Modified on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 3:47 PM MDT


BISBEE — As of Nov. 1 the Cochise County Militia, a group that has helped in the apprehension of illegal immigrants and drug smugglers, will not be operating officially when it comes to sanctioned events, according to founder Bill Davis.


“Due to the apparent lack of interest in stopping the illegal alien flow, combined with the poor economy, I find it necessary to close down the shop. People don’t want to work or they cannot afford it. I know the feeling because I do it all on Social Security,” explained Davis in a phone interview. He also writes in a press release, “With the economy the way it is we cannot purchase the necessary items we need to operate at 100 percent. Gasoline costs are prohibitive as we don’t drive government vehicles. Clothing replacement costs are up and we don’t get a clothing allowance. We buy lithium batteries for our radios that can equal a week’s food budget. We do not get donations like other border groups who hire publicity firms to bring in the money.”

The group needs around $2,000 per month to support activities that includes things like printer cartridges, motion detectors and many other items, even the Web site, he explained. “I just can’t do it anymore,” said the 69-year-old. “But, we will continue with some locals to keep the illegal numbers down.” The militia has been tracking the number of illegal immigrants it helps to apprehend and he says it has made a “big dent” in the number of illegals crossing through the Tucson sector. In one three-month period last year, the group helped Border Patrol and other law enforcement to apprehend 1,049 people. Currently, Davis is adding up the tally for the eight years the group has been in existence. Cochise County Militia was formerly known as the County Border Civil Defense Corps. For more information, contact via e-mail: cochisectymilitia@yahoo.com.

 

Copyright © 2012 Douglas Dispatch

Comments

    Firestarter wrote on Oct 23, 2008 12:46 PM:

    " So sorry to hear this. My ancestors came here LEGALLY (and went through all of the red tape at that time) looking for a better way of life. Don't understand how those who are/come here ILLEGALLY think the rules do not apply to them. ...helped apprehend illegals and DRUG SMUGGLERS ... won't be OFFICIALLY operating ... "

    antonio wrote on Oct 22, 2008 1:14 PM:

    " very good news! Never thought it would last.... Thanks! "

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