A Town in Crisis

Cleveland, Texas, a small town near Houston, has become a haven for illegal immigration, cartels, and crime. Predatory loans have lured countless undocumented immigrants, straining resources and fueling a surge in crime. A recent raid by federal and state law enforcement arrested 118 individuals, including violent offenders, bringing both shock and hope to the community.

Locals like George Cuellar, co-owner of the Wagon Wheel Bar & Grill, have witnessed the unsettling rise of Colony Ridge. "It never made sense," he says of the development. "There's no industry, nothing for these people to do." The influx of non-English speaking students has overwhelmed the schools, mirroring the situation in Springfield, Ohio, which faces a similar migrant influx.

Residents like Travis and Jason point to a surge in crime, including weekly murders. A fatal stabbing during the raid tragically underscores the grim reality. Maria Acevedo, an activist who helped expose the problems, emphasizes that "everyone is the victim here, including the illegal immigrants."

While the raid brought cautious optimism, locals remain skeptical. "118 arrests won't fix the problem," says Cuellar. Acevedo agrees, hoping the action wasn't just for show.

The crisis in Cleveland and similar towns exposes the devastating consequences of former President Biden's immigration policies. The lack of integration efforts further exacerbates the situation, leaving many undocumented immigrants isolated and unable to participate in the community.

The raid in Cleveland offered a first step, but much work lies ahead. Securing the border and addressing the millions of undocumented immigrants already in the country are crucial steps towards resolving this nationwide issue.